Wed, 25 November 2026, 1:00pm - 4:00pm   Newcastle City Library, Bewick Hall (Level 2), 33 New Bridge Street West Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8AX

They say everyone has a book in them, but writing that book is only half the battle. How can you promote, sell, and protect your written work? The Business & IP Centre, your local in-library business support service, is on hand to help!

At this year’s Books on Tyne Festival, BIPC officers (and writers) Elaine Cusack and Hannah Hoare will talk about their own writing journeys, the lessons they learnt along the way, and how free library support can help at every stage. We will also hear from the BIPC’s intellectual property specialist John Cunningham on some of the key issues facing creatives today, including artificial intelligence and copyright.

Part two will focus on an author case study. Danielle Barbereau, author of ‘Grey Matters’, will talk about her journey to publication and beyond, sharing advice about what has helped her as a first-time novelist. Ann English, the visual marketing Expert in Residence who supported Danielle through the BIPC’s Citylife grant, will share tips about vision-mapping, creative development and more for the writers in the room.

Plus, for anyone who would like to test their writing on an audience – we will close with an open mic opportunity! Sign up for a slot on the day.

 

BIPC speakers:

Hannah Hoare

Hannah Hoare had had stories in the Mechanics Institute Review, Open Pen, Infinity Wanderers Magazine, Bacopa Literary Review, and performed by Liars League. Her science fiction novel, ‘Parahumanity’, was published in 2023. She works as a Library and Enterprise Outreach Officer for BIPC North East, helping northeast businesses and pre-starts (including writers, artists and other creatives) to find the data, funding and support they need.

Elaine Cusack

Elaine Cusack has been writing and performing poetry, songs and memoir for over 40 years. Her books include ‘The Princess of Felling’ (2019) and ‘Don’t hassle me with your sighs, Blyth.’ Elaine works alongside Hannah and John as a Library and Enterprise Outreach Officer for BIPC North East.

John Cunningham

John Cunningham is a Libraries and Enterprise Outreach Officer at the Business & IP Centre North East, specialising in intellectual property. He supports writers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to understand areas including copyright, trade marks. patents and design rights. With a background in law, casework and digital design, John enjoys making complex information practical, accessible, and relevant to people developing their ideas.

 

Guest speakers:

Ann English

Ann English is a Visual Communications expert and solution focused business coach. She is the founder of Create Intrigue and The Visual Marketing Academy, creator of the VisionMapping™ process, renowned for her VisualDoodle™ style and TEDx Speaker. Ann equips business owners, creatives, consultants, coaches and thought leaders with a range of visual communication tools and techniques to transform their ideas into reality.

Ann is also the creator of the Clarity Quest IdeasBook™, a 2-in-1 guided journal and interactive workbook designed to provide a safe harbour for your thoughts, hopes, vision and dreams through thought-provoking questions, quotes and prompts. https://www.annenglish.co.uk/the-clarity-quest-ideasbook

Danielle Barbereau

The UK’s first divorce coach Danielle spent 17 years supporting 1,750+ clients through separation/divorce – all referred by their lawyers.

She’s the author of:

  • After the Split’ (non-fiction) – a practical and compassionate guide which helps readers navigate the emotional challenges of relationship breakdown and rebuild confidence during profound change.
  • Grey Matters’ (fiction) – Through an emotionally rich and authentic story Danielle challenges stereotypes/celebrates resilience/honours women whose voices/experiences are often forgotten/overlooked.

Danielle’s work is rooted in a deep understanding of relationships/human behaviour/personal transformation.  Her books share the wisdom she’s gained from helping others navigate life’s most significant transitions.

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Contact us today if you’re interested in receiving business support. We'll help give you the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow and protect your business.

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