Of course, the community of writing extends beyond the bounds the University; Iowa City enjoys a thriving literary scene Writing is central to the identity of The University of Iowa, and a culture based on nurturing and supporting writers and writing has evolved in the surrounding community to support it. Following is a directory of local institutions, businesses, and programs that enrich The Writing University's culture of writing.Iowa Avenue Literary Walk Iowa Book Iowa City Public Library Prairie Lights Bookstore Riverside Theater Shakespeare in the Park