Literary Memberships for
Low-income Devon Residents
Our Literary Memberships scheme helps make Devon's literary community more accessible to people who might otherwise be unable to afford membership fees.
Each year, Exeter City of Literature funds a small number of one-year memberships with local literary organisations, giving people the opportunity to connect with other readers and writers, develop their creativity, and take part in literary life.
Photo credit: Paul Courtney
Who can apply?
To be eligible, you must:
Live in Devon
Be aged 25–45
Live in a low-income household and/or receive means-tested benefits
Sponsored memberships are limited and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants.
This year’s memberships
In 2026, we're funding:
5 memberships to The Devon & Exeter Institution – Exeter's historic independent library, offering a welcoming community, beautiful study spaces, and an inspiring place to read, write, and work.
5 Raw Regular memberships with Raw Writing – providing access to writing clubs, masterclasses, and a supportive community of local writers.
When to apply
Applications open during the first week of April each year and remain open until all funded memberships have been allocated. Please only apply if you would be unable to purchase a membership yourself because of your financial circumstances.
Applications are currently paused for the Raw Writing memberships whilst we review applications.
About The Devon and Exeter Institution
The DEI is a thriving independent, historic library right in the heart of Exeter. It has just completed a major capital development project and offers an unrivalled range of beautiful spaces for reading, writing, meetings, and events.
By becoming a member of the DEI, you will be joining a unique community of readers and writers, united in supporting and enjoying Exeter's oldest library in its original setting.
Photo credit: Jim Wileman
About Raw Writing
Raw Writing courses and workshops offer you the opportunity to learn how to write in a supportive setting with like-minded individuals and expert, published tutors.
Raw Writing also offers anybody who loves reading and writing the opportunity to join the Raw Writing community and attend free social events, which are held on the last Friday of the month in Exeter, and free ‘Silent Writing Club’ sessions where you can write in peace with fellow writers in a warm and supportive atmosphere, with the opportunity to socialise afterwards.