Name: Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Gates Library
Start: 2026-10-12
End: 2026-10-12

Rochester, NY, is the third-largest metropolitan area in New York State, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. With a proud sports tradition, Rochester is home to iconic teams like the Rochester Red Wings (MiLB), Rochester Americans (AHL), Rochester Knighthawks (NLL), and Flower City Union (NPSL). Our vibrant sports culture thrives across all levels, from youth clubs and high schools to elite collegiate programs, creating a strong, year-round foundation for athletic excellence.

The Rochester NY Sports Commission champions Monroe County through the power of sports tourism. By attracting championships, invitationals, and tournaments across a wide range of disciplines, we help fuel the region’s economy and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Each year, Rochester welcomes a growing roster of sporting events, showcasing our top-tier facilities, supportive community, and dedication to teamwork on and off the field.

We invite event organizers, rights holders, and sports professionals to discover why Rochester and Monroe County are ideal destinations for your next competition or tournament. Let’s play in Rochester!

Visit Rochester

What can photographs tell us about our lives today, the traditions of our past, and the world we want to create? Which stories, emotions, details, secrets, and meanings lie just outside frame of the photograph?

Whether you’re creating memoir, poetry, family history, or a scrapbook—using photographs to inspire or accompany your work can add much-needed texture, focus, and intimacy. This session will offer tips and writing prompts to help get you started. You’ll have time to discuss your work in a supportive environment and come away with fresh ideas and drafts to refine or expand into longer projects. Bring 3-5 photographs (phone or hard copy) that intrigue, inspire, or hold great meaning for you.

This workshop is presented as part of our [Rochester Reads 25th Anniversary](https://writersandbooks.org/rochester-reads/) programming. Participants in this workshop will learn from Sonja Livingston, author of our 2026 Rochester Reads selection, *Ghostbread*.

**Sonja Livingston** is the author of four books of creative nonfiction, including the award- winning memoir Ghostbread, which has been adopted for classroom use around the country. Her work appears in The Kenyon Review, Ploughshares, Salon, and elsewhere. Honors include a NYFA Fellowship, an Iowa Review Award, an Arts & Letters Prize, a VanderMey Nonfiction Prize, and an AWP Book Prize. Sonja is an associate professor in the MFA Program at Virginia Commonwealth University and teaches in the Postgraduate Program at Vermont College of Fine Arts.

Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Gates Library

Discover a comfortable and welcoming retreat at the Hampton Inn Rochester-Irondequoit, conveniently located on East Ridge Road in Rochester, NY. Perfectly positioned for both business travelers and tourists, this hotel offers proximity to key attractions and transport hubs, ensuring a seamless stay for all guests.

The hotel features well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation and productivity, with modern amenities such as complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and cozy bedding. Guests can start their day with a delicious complimentary breakfast, featuring a variety of hot and cold options to suit all tastes. For those in need of a workout, the fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art machines, ideal for maintaining your exercise routine while traveling.

Families will appreciate spacious accommodations and attentive service, while business travelers can make use of the business center and meeting rooms for any professional needs. The Hampton Inn Rochester-Irondequoit also enjoys a strategic location near popular Rochester attractions, including the Kodak Center and Seneca Park Zoo, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.

With its blend of comfort, convenience, and service, the Hampton Inn Rochester-Irondequoit stands out as an ideal choice for travelers seeking reliability and a welcoming atmosphere during their visit to Rochester. Whether you're here for work or leisure, experience exceptional hospitality and thoughtful amenities tailored to enhance your stay. 

Hampton Inn Rochester-Irondequoit

Nestled in the charming city of Rochester, NY, Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta offers an unparalleled stay experience, combining the comforts of home with the luxury of hotel hospitality. Ideal for both short visits and extended stays, our spacious studio, one-, and two-bedroom suites are designed with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you have everything you need to feel at home. Begin your day with our complimentary hot breakfast buffet, and wind down in the evenings at our social mixers, a perfect opportunity to socialize or network. With our fitness center, you can keep up with your workout routine, and our indoor pool provides a refreshing retreat. Located at 1300 Jefferson Rd, we're conveniently situated close to top attractions and business hubs, making it easy to explore or conduct business. Experience the blend of comfort and convenience at Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta, your home away from home. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta

Discover a blend of comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE - Irondequoit, an IHG Hotel. Perfectly positioned at 2200 N Goodman St, our hotel stands as a beacon of relaxation in Rochester, NY. Guests can enjoy modern amenities in our tastefully appointed rooms, including free high-speed WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a complimentary Express Start Breakfast to kickstart their day. Our prime location not only offers easy access to the vibrant city center but also places you within reach of picturesque Irondequoit Bay. Whether you're in town for business or exploring Rochester's rich cultural tapestry, our friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring your stay is both productive and pleasurable. With a commitment to providing unmatched hospitality, Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE - Irondequoit, an IHG Hotel, is where convenience meets comfort. Welcome to your next memorable stay. 

Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE - Irondequoit, an IHG Hotel

Nestled in the charming city of Rochester, NY, Hotel on Monroe, BW Signature Collection, offers a luxurious retreat for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a touch of elegance. Situated at 2323 Monroe Ave, this boutique hotel provides guests with easy access to the city’s vibrant culture, exquisite dining, and enthralling attractions. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be enveloped in a world of sophistication and exceptional service.

Our stylish rooms and suites are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring all the modern amenities you need for a perfect stay. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, our attentive staff is dedicated to making your visit unforgettable.

Hotel on Monroe isn't just a place to stay; it’s a destination. Enjoy our top-notch facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, and indulge in the local flavors at our on-site restaurant. Experience the best of Rochester with us, where elegance meets excellence in every detail. 

Hotel on Monroe, BW Signature Collection

Treat yourself to a refreshingly modern stay in Rochester, NY!

Stay in style at the Oakfield Hotel & Suites Rochester, an Ascend Collection™ Hotel located in the heart of Rochester, NY, right next to shopping and dining at Whole Foods Market. Our boutique accommodations are ideal for creating one-of-a-kind local experiences that connect you to natural beauty, historic locations, exciting restaurants and cultural attractions. As our guest, you're a 15-minute drive from Lake Ontario’s beautiful shoreline and the Greater Rochester International Airport.

Oakfield Hotel & Suites Rochester, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Welcome to Hampton Inn Brockport, a haven of comfort and convenience located just moments away from the charming historic village of Brockport, NY. Nestled at 4873 Lake Rd N, our hotel offers the perfect blend of cozy accommodations and warm hospitality, ensuring a memorable stay for both business and leisure travelers. Each of our spacious rooms is equipped with modern amenities, including free high-speed internet and a comfortable Hampton bed, guaranteeing a restful night's sleep. 

Kick start your day with our complimentary hot breakfast featuring a variety of healthy and indulgent options. Stay active in our fitness center or unwind in our indoor pool. For those visiting SUNY Brockport or exploring the scenic Erie Canal, our prime location offers easy access to the best local attractions. At Hampton Inn Brockport, we're committed to providing you with an exceptional stay, filled with genuine service, comfort, and convenience. Experience the beauty of upstate New York with us! 

Hampton Inn Brockport

Nestled in the heart of picturesque Pittsford, NY, The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and serene beauty. This elegantly appointed hotel, located at 41 N Main St, invites guests to experience unparalleled service and sophisticated amenities. Each room is a haven of relaxation, featuring plush bedding, modern décor, and thoughtful touches designed to make your stay unforgettable.

Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at our world-class spa, savor gourmet dining at our onsite restaurant, or explore the charming village of Pittsford along the historic Erie Canal. Whether you're visiting for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, our attentive staff and convenient amenities, including a fitness center and versatile meeting spaces, ensure your experience is seamless.

The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa is not just a place to stay; it's a destination that promises a blend of tranquility and sophistication, making every visit memorable. 

The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa

Nestled in the heart of Rochester, NY, the Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield offers an unparalleled experience of comfort and convenience. Situated at 1000 Linden Park, this modern hotel is your gateway to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Upstate New York. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, you'll find our guest rooms and suites provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploration or meetings, featuring plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workstations. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bistro, our on-site restaurant, also serving evening cocktails and dinner options. Stay active with our indoor pool and fitness center, or unwind in the picturesque courtyard. With exceptional service and amenities tailored to your needs, Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield ensures a memorable stay in Rochester. Experience the mix of tradition and innovation that defines us. Welcome to your home away from home. 

Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield

Welcome to Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield, your ideal getaway nestled in the serene landscapes of Penfield, NY. Situated at 950 Panorama Trail S, our hotel promises unbeatable comfort, exceptional service, and a location that puts you at the heart of New York's breathtaking beauty. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, our modern rooms, equipped with all the necessary amenities, ensure a stay that is both productive and relaxing. Start each day refreshed with our complimentary hot breakfast, stay connected with free high-speed internet, and unwind in our indoor pool. Our proximity to historic Rochester offers easy access to its vibrant culture, exquisite dining, and captivating attractions. At Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield, we're committed to making your stay memorable, with a friendly staff ready to welcome you with the true spirit of hospitality. Discover your home away from home, where comfort meets convenience. 

Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield

Nestled in the scenic town of Webster, NY, the Super 8 by Wyndham Webster/Rochester hotel offers travelers a comfortable and convenient stay. Whether you're here for business or exploring the beauty of upstate New York, our prime location at 2450 Empire Blvd places you perfectly to access Rochester's thriving city life and Webster's serene landscapes. Our guests enjoy a selection of well-appointed rooms, each designed to provide a restful night's sleep. Start your day right with our complimentary breakfast, and stay connected with free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you're never out of touch with what's important. Just minutes away from Lake Ontario and local dining gems, our hotel serves as an ideal base for all your adventures. At Super 8 by Wyndham Webster/Rochester, we're committed to making your stay memorable, offering the excellent value and warm hospitality that keeps our guests coming back. 

Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Gates Library

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