## Step 6 - Task

Task: Write a letter
You read the article Do we still need libraries?. You disagree with the author.
You think that libraries take up valuable space that could be used for other things. (Make some suggestions).
You decide to write to the editor.

#### Letter to the editor?

If you have something you want people to hear, you might like to write a letter to the editor. Letters to the editor are written by people in the community to comment on issues mentioned in newspapers and online articles. Though there’s no guaranteed way to get your letter published there
are some tips and tricks you can use that will increase your chances.
It’s also worth finding out more about what’s in your state or territory and where you can send your
letter when it’s done.

- Read the tips.
- Make a list of the points you want to make.

- Write your letter. 120-180 words.

Some top tips Here are a few tips to help you on your way—but remember, this isn't an exhaustive list, and it's always a good idea to hop online and see if your favourite newspaper has guidelines and tricks for how to write a great letter to the editor! Read the 'letters to the editor' section of your newspaper-of-choice. If you can capture the style of the published letters, you'll increase your chances of finding your opinion in print. Do your research. Find out where you need to send your letter, and how you need to send it (fax, e-mail, or snail mail). Start your letter with: ‘Dear Editor,’ quote the article that you are writing in response to, and the date it was published. Be up front with your comments about the article. Are you supporting the article, or wanting to set the record straight? Keep it short. Most newspapers prefer letters to be kept under 200 words. So, focus on one or two of the most important points rather than trying to express all your ideas. End with ‘Sincerely, your name.’ You might want to include a line underneath that explains who you are or your hometown, e.g. ‘Connie Jones, HSC Student’ Newspapers try to show a range of points of view, so being young can work to your advantage! Once you’ve poured your heart out onto paper (or screen), walk away and come back in a different frame of mind to edit. Make sure that what you’ve said is easy to follow, to-the-point, well backed up with facts, and uses formal language. Get a friend or family member to read your letter and see if they get what you meant. Spell-check your letter and make sure it is double-spaced. Your letter will need to meet the particular newspaper’s formatting guidelines. These are usually shown on the letters to the editor page. The guidelines might ask for your personal and contact details. This is because they may contact you to check that you, and not someone pretending to be you, wrote the letter. If you don't want your name published, tell the editor by adding a note before or after the letter itself. E.g. 'P.S. I would like to remain anonymous so please don’t publish my name.' Post, fax or e-mail your letter to the address listed by the newspaper.

| #### Example letter to the editor