Library Seeks Poetry Submissions

In anticipation of “Poem in Your Pocket Day,” Tompkins County Public Library is seeking original works from local poets.

“Poem in Your Pocket Day,” held in recognition of National Poetry Month, is an initiative designed to spark interest and excitement in poetry by sharing free poems with the community.  TCPL librarians will distribute free cards, featuring submitted poems, in the Library, on the Downtown Ithaca Commons and in additional locations throughout Ithaca on April 30.  Poems will also be available at the Library’s Adult Services Reference Desk.

Individuals, creative writing groups and classes are encouraged to submit poems for consideration on or before February 28.  Due to size limitations, short works--including haiku and couplets--or excerpts of larger pieces are requested.

Launched in New York City in 2002, “Poem in Your Pocket Day,” celebrates the rich history of pocket poems—from commonplace books during the Renaissance to pocket-sized publications carried by World War II soldiers.  Since 2008, bookstores, schools, libraries, parks and businesses across the country have embraced “Poem in Your Pocket Day” by encouraging open readings of pocket poems.

Submissions should be sent to Readers’ Services Librarian Teresa Vadakin at tvadakin@tcpl.org, mailed to Vadakin at 101 East Green Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 or brought to the Library’s Adult Reference Desk.

For more information, contact Vadakin at (607) 272-4557 extension 272 or tvadakin@tcpl.org.