The Salt Lake City Arts Council co-sponsors the Guest Writers Series (GWS) with the University of Utah Department of English and Creative Writing Program. A monthly series, scheduled on Thursday evenings, brings in contemporary writers from across the county. The public readings at the Art Barn, 54 Finch Lane, are free and followed by a reception for meeting the writers. On the Friday following each reading, the authors participate in a public, informal lunchtime conversation from noon to 1:30 pm, also at the Art Barn. Call 801.596.5000 for details.