Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Library

Since 1996, April has been designated National Poetry Month by the Academy of American Poets.  The purpose of this monthlong celebration is to increase awareness and appreciation of poetry in the United States. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is offering a variety of poetry programs at various locations during April to celebrate.

See/Listen to WFAE's coverage of The Poet Is IN.

Here is just a sample of the many programs celebrating poetry:

Poetry Month Kickoff Ceremony

Monday, April 1, 2019 from 11:30am to 12 p.m. at Main Library

Join Slam Master Bluz and other local poets for the unveiling of the 2018 National Poetry Slam Championship trophy at Main Library. Learn more.

The Poet is IN: Meet a Local Poet--Leave With a Poem

Select weekdays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Main Library

Come meet local poets and see them in action! Poets will craft poems on the spot based on suggestions. The Poet is In will be on the first floor near the entrance. Come join us for poetry fun! Learn more .

Writing Workshop: Wild Words Poetry Workshop

Thursday, April 4, 2019 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Matthews Library

Poets and lovers of verse of all experience and skill levels are encouraged to join this group to read, write, and discuss poetry. Register here.

Spoken Word with Bluz

Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Main Library

Emmy Award Winner Bluz, Slam Master of the 2018 National Championship Slam Poetry team, presents a riveting poetry performance and workshop. Register here.

Writer's Workshop: Guerilla Poets Art & Poetry

Wednesday, April 10, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Independence Regional Library

In honor of National Poetry Month, learn how to express yourself and be uplifted through the arts involving poetry, music and artwork. Learn how to write poetry, play music and create art. Register here.

Cannonball Into the Deep End-Writing the Poem that Leaves Us Breathless

Saturday, April 13, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Main Library

Join award-winning poet J. Ward for a workshop featuring a performance of his poetry and some prompts to begin writing your own. Ward’s work has graced many stages. He is best known for his excellent writing and incomparable stage presence. Register here.

Adult Poetry Club Presents: ADULT POETRY SLAM

Wednesday, April 24, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Independence Regional Library

Come join us for an interactive ADULT POETRY SLAM where you are invited to recite, share and hear the poetic works of others during National Poetry Month. Register here.

Buried Treasure Poetry Workshop

Saturday, April 27, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Main Library

Join award winning visual artist and poet Shane Manier for a poetry performance and prompts to develop your own writing in this workshop, geared towards how to get breathtaking metaphors in your poetry. Manier is the founder of Guerilla Poets, a nonprofit artist collective with branches in the US and UK, has served on the Poetry Council of NC board, has been a member of Respect Da Mic slam team from 2017-2019 and has been featured and published across the Southeast. She released her first chapbook Fallen Heroes of the Awful Waffle with Main Street Rag in 2017, along with her first spoken word album Bootstraps. Register here.

All of the programs are free to attend. A comprehensive listing can be found here.

https://www.wsoctv.com/community/power-of-poetry-helps-heal-mans-trauma/935432492