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

Nestled in the charming town of Webster, NY, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester East offers guests a restful and rejuvenating stay. Perfectly positioned at 915 Hard Rd, our hotel places you at the heart of convenience, with easy access to the vibrant city of Rochester and the serene beauty of Lake Ontario. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, our thoughtfully appointed rooms and suites are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and modern amenities to ensure a seamless stay. Start your day with our delicious, free hot breakfast, energize in our fitness center, or unwind in our indoor pool. With a commitment to friendly service and satisfaction, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester East is your ideal choice for experiencing the best of Webster and beyond, making every stay memorable. 

Fairfield Inn and Suites Rochester East

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Hampton Inn Rochester-Webster, nestled at 878 Hard Rd, Webster, NY. This inviting hotel promises a memorable stay whether you're in town for business or leisure. Just minutes away from the breathtaking shores of Lake Ontario and the vibrant city of Rochester, our location is ideal for exploring local attractions and the rich history of the area.

Our spacious, modern rooms are designed with your relaxation in mind, featuring plush bedding, free high-speed internet, and a host of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Start your day right with our complimentary hot breakfast, energize in our fitness center, or unwind in our indoor pool.

At Hampton Inn Rochester-Webster, we're committed to providing you with outstanding service and ensuring your stay is enjoyable and stress-free. Book with us and discover the perfect home away from home in the heart of Webster, NY. 

Hampton Inn Rochester-Webster

Nestled in the scenic town of Pittsford, NY, the Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/Pittsford offers an inviting retreat for both business and leisure travelers. Located at 800 Pittsford Victor Rd, this sophisticated hotel seamlessly blends convenience with comfort. Guests can enjoy modern accommodations equipped with plush bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workspaces. Savor delicious American cuisine at The Garden Grille & Bar, or take advantage of our 24-hour Pavilion Pantry for snacks any time. With a well-equipped fitness center, indoor pool, and flexible meeting spaces, we cater to all your needs under one roof. Just minutes away from top attractions and corporate offices, our strategic location ensures an effortless stay. Experience genuine hospitality and personalized service that makes Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/Pittsford the perfect choice for your next visit to upstate New York. 

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/Pittsford

Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester Webster, an IHG Hotel, situated at the heart of Webster, NY. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, our prime location at 860 Holt Rd offers easy access to Rochester's vibrant city center, scenic Lake Ontario, and the myriad attractions the area holds. Our modern, thoughtfully designed rooms and suites promise a restful stay with amenities tailored to your needs - from free Wi-Fi that keeps you connected to a complimentary hot breakfast that energizes your day. Stay fit with our 24-hour fitness center or unwind in our indoor pool. For the business traveler, our efficient meeting spaces and business services ensure you're always on top of your game. Experience heartfelt hospitality matched with outstanding value, where every stay is memorable. Welcome to Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester Webster, where your comfort is our priority. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester Webster, an IHG Hotel

Escape to a serene retreat at Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, nestled in the rolling hills of Fairport, NY. Our elegant accommodations, world-class spa, and breathtaking views offer the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a rejuvenating escape, our dedicated staff is committed to making your stay unforgettable. Experience gourmet dining, championship golf, and endless outdoor adventures just minutes from Rochester. Book your stay today and discover why Woodcliff Hotel & Spa is the premier destination for discerning travelers. 

Woodcliff Hotel & Spa

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Victor, New York, Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor invites guests to experience unparalleled comfort and convenience. Perfectly situated at 7637 NY-96, our hotel is the ideal base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of upstate New York. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, our spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites are designed to meet all your needs, with complimentary Wi-Fi, cozy beds, and modern amenities ensuring a restful stay. Kick start your day with our free hot breakfast, and unwind in the evening with a relaxing dip in our indoor pool or a workout in the fitness center. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate our proximity to Eastview Mall, while outdoor adventurers can explore nearby trails and parks. At Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor, we're committed to making your stay memorable, offering friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, an IHG Hotel. Nestled in the serene town of Victor, NY, at 7502 Main St Fishers, our hotel is the ultimate gateway for both business and leisure travelers. Just a short drive from downtown Rochester, our location offers easy access to major attractions and corporate hubs. Start your day with our complimentary Express Start Breakfast, featuring a range of delicious hot and cold options to energize your morning. Our modern guest rooms and suites are designed with your relaxation in mind, equipped with plush bedding, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and ample workspace. Dive into our indoor pool or keep up with your workout routine at our 24-hour fitness center. Whether you're here for a meeting or exploring the Finger Lakes, our friendly staff is dedicated to making your stay memorable. Experience comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, where we make every journey brighter. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, an IHG Hotel

Nestled in the beautiful and tranquil town of Victor, New York, the Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites offers guests an escape into comfort and convenience. Just off Route 96, our hotel is the perfect base for travelers looking to explore the Finger Lakes region, shop at the nearby Eastview Mall, or indulge in the local wineries and breweries. Our modern and well-appointed rooms, complete with plush bedding, ensure a restful night's sleep, while our complimentary hot breakfast provides the perfect start to your day. Whether you're here for business or leisure, you can unwind in our heated indoor pool or stay active in our fully-equipped fitness center. With our friendly staff dedicated to making your stay exceptional, the Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites is more than just a place to stay—it's a gateway to the best of Victor and the surrounding beauty of upstate New York. 

Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites

Nestled in the picturesque town of Macedon, New York, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. With its strategic location along NY-31, the hotel provides easy access to the Finger Lakes region, making it an ideal hub for tourists eager to explore the natural beauty and attractions of the area.

The hotel features a range of accommodations designed with guest comfort in mind, including modern rooms and spacious suites that cater to both solo travelers and families. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a restful stay for every visitor. For added convenience, guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout their stay, perfect for both business travelers needing to stay connected and families looking to share their vacation moments.

Designed with accessibility in mind, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon ensures that all guests, including those with disabilities, can enjoy a comfortable stay. The hotel is a short drive from several local attractions, adding to its appeal for those eager to explore the nearby charming towns, scenic trails, and cultural landmarks.

Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon offers a restful and convenient experience, making it a compelling choice for your stay in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. 

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon

Escape to The Lake House on Canandaigua, where unparalleled luxury meets the serene beauty of upstate New York's Finger Lakes. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Canandaigua Lake, our hotel offers an oasis of relaxation enriched by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Each meticulously designed room boasts breathtaking views, inviting guests to unwind and indulge in the comfort and elegance that define their stay. Whether you're exploring the lush vineyards, embarking on a culinary journey at our acclaimed on-site restaurant, or finding peace at our world-class spa, The Lake House caters to every desire. Our exceptional service and attention to detail ensure that from the moment you arrive, your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Let The Lake House on Canandaigua be your retreat to relish memorable moments and create new traditions amidst the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes. 

Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Gates Library

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