National Poetry Month was launched by the Academy of American Poets in April 1996 to remind the public that poets have an integral role to play in our culture and that poetry matters.
Here at OPL, we always celebrate poetry, but in April we get to really put that on display!
Publish Your Poetry
Gelli Prints Making
Jul 20th | 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Join Ase Arts for a hands-on adult art workshop at the library. Stop by to learn how to make monoprints using a Gelli plate.
OPL Staff Share Their Words
Staff Poetry
Staff Poets at OPL
In honor of National Poetry Month, we'd love to share some staff talent. Enjoy these poems written by OPL staff.
Staff Poetry Recommendations
Poetry Book Lists
Poetry for Children
Poetry can be found in Fiction or Nonfiction, in picturebooks, chapter books, and audio kits.
Contemporary Black Poets
Read these talented up-and-coming or established award-winning Black or Afro-diasporic poets!
Novels in Verse
Short enough to read quickly. Long enough to inspire empathy. Plenty of words, but no extra. For Poetry Month and beyond.
Oakland Youth Poet Laureate Performances
OYPL Performances
OYPL Performances and More
OYPL poets are able to perform, speak, host workshops, plan projects, & share their truths in many ways. See what they've accomplished!