April brings more than just showers and spring flowers—it heralds the arrival of National Poetry Month, a time to immerse ourselves in the beauty and power of the written word. Since its inception in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, this annual celebration has blossomed into the world's largest literary festivity, touching the lives of millions. National Poetry Month isn't just a casual nod to poetry; it's a full-fledged celebration of the art form's vital role in our culture. From students and teachers to booksellers and literary enthusiasts, people from all walks of life come together to honor the profound impact of poetry on our society.
Nurturing the Poetic Spirit
At its core, National Poetry Month aims to:
- Showcase the rich legacy and ongoing contributions of American poets
- Foster a love for poetry among readers of all ages
- Empower educators to weave poetry into their curricula
- Amplify poetry's presence in media and public discourse
- Boost the publication and distribution of poetry books
- Cultivate support for poets and their craft
Celebrate with Us!
Ways to celebrate National Poetry Month:
- Enter SJPL’s Spring into Poetry Contest
- Attend one of SJPL's poetry-themed events.
- Borrow a book of poetry from your local SJPL branch. Consider the works of our current United States Poet Laureate, Ada Limón.
- Check out SJPL’s many e-resources about poetry.
- Sign-up for Poem-a-Day from the Academy of American Poets and read a poem every day.
- Donate books of poetry to Friends of the Library.
Embrace the Power of Poetry
As we embrace National Poetry Month, let's remember that poetry isn't just words on a page—it's the rhythm of our lives, the melody of our thoughts, and the heartbeat of our emotions. So, pick up a poem, let the words dance in your mind, and discover the poet within you. Join us in honoring the craft that turns ordinary words into extraordinary emotions.
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