Tina Shines at the Waterloo Local Author Showcase

On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Tina joined a vibrant community of local authors at the Local Author Showcase held at the Waterloo Public Library (Main Library). Presented in partnership with the KW Writers’ Alliance, the event gave readers a chance to discover new voices, meet authors face-to-face, and celebrate local talent — all in the heart of Waterloo’s literary community.

For Tina, the showcase was about far more than sharing her book, Live Your Dreams, Not Your Drama. It was a chance to connect directly with readers, share her journey as an author, and celebrate the courage it takes to put a story into the world. She engaged guests in conversations about resilience, personal growth, and the lessons that inspired her writing — moments that reminded everyone why storytelling truly matters.

The room buzzed with energy as visitors moved between booths, exploring memoirs, fiction, guides, and inspirational works. The event highlighted the dedication, creativity, and courage it takes to write and self-publish a book. It was a space where authors could showcase their work, discuss their process, and connect with readers who value independent stories from their own community.

Tina particularly appreciated how the Waterloo Public Library (WPL) created an empowering platform for local authors, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of the region’s literary scene. By supporting events like this, WPL not only promotes local creativity but also strengthens community, sparks ideas, and celebrates the courage it takes to tell your story.

The showcase was a reminder that books do more than entertain — they connect, inspire, and build lasting community connections.