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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Oxford Poetry Library
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241209T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241209T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240407T155038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240407T155038Z
UID:6149-1733770800-1733776200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started With Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-23/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241214T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241214T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240419T162830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240802T140550Z
UID:6299-1734184800-1734192000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry workshop
DESCRIPTION:Note that until further notice\, these sessions will happen online – links to the Zoom session will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events. \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm online. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop. \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-workshop-8/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241216T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241216T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20231209T170642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231209T170642Z
UID:5064-1734377400-1734384600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- December Online
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host twice-monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our December online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-december-online-2/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250107T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250107T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240407T161347Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241213T161059Z
UID:6192-1736278200-1736287200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This Is Just To Say: spoken word open mic
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 5 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served! \nThe theme for this month is MY BODY IS…. Let’s get physical – is your body a temple? an encumbrance? a political statement? a place to live? a work of art? a squishy water-bed of fleshy tissue? Let us know. \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage is Wendy Allen. Wendy’s debut pamphlet\, Plastic Tubed Little Bird\, was published by Broken Sleep in 2023. She has collaborated with Charley Barnes on freebleeding (Broken Sleep\, 2024) and with Galia Admoni on i get lost everywhere\, you know this now (Salo Press\, 2024). Wendy’s latest pamphlet\, Portrait in Mustard\, was published by Seren in October 2024. She is a PhD researcher at MMU. \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive around 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThere will be a bar at this event\, so it is no longer BYOB! \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say-spoken-word-open-mic-25/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-e1653772097543.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250111T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250111T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241209T140433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T144559Z
UID:8593-1736604000-1736611200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Note that these sessions will alternate between online and in-person – links to the Zoom sessions will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events. This month’s session will take place online. \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-workshop-9/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250113T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250113T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240407T155142Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240407T155142Z
UID:6151-1736794800-1736800200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started With Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-24/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250117T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250117T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250108T110137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T110137Z
UID:8666-1737120600-1737127800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nFrom 2025\, Friday opening hours at the Library are making way for Write Space\, a new pop-up place for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. For two hours every other Friday\, come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm Every other Friday\, January-March 2025 (and hopefully beyond!) \nWhere is it?\nThe event space at the Community Works\, Park End Street. \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who would value this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nSave your spot by registering via the link below.\n(We’re asking everyone to pre-book during our pilot phase so we can plan well and make sure there’s plenty of space for all.) \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nWe’ll start with a gentle writer’s warm-up then we’ll work in peace on our projects. We’ll take a short break before a second block of writing. If you arrive between those times\, you’re welcome to settle in quietly – we’ll look forward to chatting to you in the break! \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.  \nCan I bring my kids/ pets/ friends?\nGreat question! We are exploring setting up a Write Space special edition with space for babies but for now it’s for (human) adults. Friends are welcome – make sure they book themselves a spot!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Arts & Crafts,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250118T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250118T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T141507Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250118T130540Z
UID:8215-1737208800-1737216000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Reading Circle
DESCRIPTION:People who never read poetry don’t write poems that are worth reading – Wendy Cope \n  \nIf you’re keen to find a way in to reading and appreciating poetry\, discover new writing\, and open your mind to the world of poetry\, welcome to The Reading Circle. \nCome to OPL’s poetry reading group where we’ll share and discuss poems written in the 20th and 21st centuries in a relaxed and inclusive peer-led environment. \n  \nQuestions we’ll be asking include: \nWhat makes a poem ‘work’?  \nWhy do we like a poem? Why don’t we?  \nIs there such a thing as a fashionable poem? Does it matter?  \nCan we love a poem we don’t fully understand? What makes mystery different to obscurity?  \nWhat might we learn from other poets that can help us enrich our own craft?  \n  \nThe Reading Circle meets on the third Saturday of each month\, 2-4 pm in The Community Works. We suggest a donation to attend each session: £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more) and registration is required here. Donations are optional and shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, but all proceeds go to the running costs of the Oxford Poetry Library and our ability to continue providing these sorts of sessions. \nFacilitated by the established writers and prolific readers Alan Buckley and Carl Tomlinson. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-reading-circle-10/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Reading-Circle-version-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250119T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250119T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241122T163200Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241213T164534Z
UID:8364-1737288000-1737298800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Family Sunday and Storytelling
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 3rd Sunday of every month\, where The Community Works will be open for Family Sunday! The library will be open for browsing\, borrowing\, or just hanging out to read\, write\, and relax. Lula’s Ethiopian Cuisine will be open for an affordable all-you-can-eat buffet\, and we will provide a safe\, inclusive space for food\, fun\, and play. \nAll are welcome to The Community Works between 12pm and 3pm to drop in for free – we’ll have books for young and old\, poetry games and activities\, and as always\, our friendly and welcoming librarian volunteers. \nTo celebrate the first of these Sunday openings on 19 January\, storyteller and children’s book writer Ed Boxall will be joining us from 1pm for a performance of the heartwarming English folktale\, “The Warm Glow”\, along with a cosy selection of his songs and poems. All welcome\, no need to book\, and the session is completely free…but there’s a £10 optional donation which includes a signed book from Ed! \n \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-community-works-community-day/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Family Friendly
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Warm-Glow-Promo-SQUARE.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250120T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250120T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250102T154352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T161258Z
UID:8862-1737401400-1737408600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT reading group- January Session
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our January online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-january-session/
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250126T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250126T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240625T123910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T134744Z
UID:6993-1737896400-1737903600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table Peformance Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Drafting Table\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. Just bring a willingness to receive and provide feedback with the whole group! \nOnce a month\, we invite a published poet to join us. There will be a short reading of their poems followed by a workshop where attendees can learn more about the creative process\, get an insight into what it means to be a poet\, and share our work with them. \nThis month’s poet is legend of Welsh poetry Gwyneth Lewis. Check out Gwyneth’s website for more of her accolades. \nPLEASE NOTE: due to high demand\, this session is ticketed (but still free!) Please book via eventbrite here. \n  \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-peformance-session/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250131T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250131T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T165653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T165653Z
UID:8261-1738323000-1738328400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic
DESCRIPTION:Hey! The rumours are true. It’s… \nThe Hip Crowd Open Mic! \n\nOxford Poetry Library and Makespace Oxford bring you an open mic event especially for folks with babes-in-arms\, but also open to all and everyone. \nIf you’re feeling like daytime is the right time for you to entertain or be entertained\, join us at The Community Works on the last Friday of every month. The action begins at 11.30am\, but performers please do arrive from 11am to sign up for your turn on the stage. \nWe welcome poetry\, music\, storytelling\, comedy and whatever else you think might dazzle in a 5-minute slot \nThe entire event will be baby friendly and baby welcoming\, with lots of floor space at the front\, changing facilities\, buggy parking area outside\, and clear walkways to exit the performance area easily if needed.  There will also be that most beautiful and warmly appreciated of gifts: free tea and coffee provided. \nThe event is non-ticketed\, but costs £5 to spectate (£2 for concessions) and is totally free to performers. Cash only (there are nearby cashpoints)! \nBe there or be square.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-hip-crowd-open-mic-5/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250131T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250131T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250108T110228Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T110336Z
UID:8950-1738330200-1738337400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nFrom 2025\, Friday opening hours at the Library are making way for Write Space\, a new pop-up place for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. For two hours every other Friday\, come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm Every other Friday\, January-March 2025 (and hopefully beyond!) \nWhere is it?\nThe event space at the Community Works\, Park End Street. \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who would value this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nSave your spot by registering via the link below.\n(We’re asking everyone to pre-book during our pilot phase so we can plan well and make sure there’s plenty of space for all.) \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nWe’ll start with a gentle writer’s warm-up then we’ll work in peace on our projects. We’ll take a short break before a second block of writing. If you arrive between those times\, you’re welcome to settle in quietly – we’ll look forward to chatting to you in the break! \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.  \nCan I bring my kids/ pets/ friends?\nGreat question! We are exploring setting up a Write Space special edition with space for babies but for now it’s for (human) adults. Friends are welcome – make sure they book themselves a spot!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-2/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250201T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250201T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240625T122353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240625T122353Z
UID:6969-1738414800-1738422000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table Workshop Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our poetry drafting group\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. If you feel you’d like to join us\, please bring along at least one unfinished\, unpublished work-in-progress that you’re willing to share with the whole group. We are normally able to hear and give feedback to around 6 or 7 poets per session. \nRegular attendance is encouraged\, to help us build a trusting and collaborative community. \nFeel free to email queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com \nWe meet: \n1-3pm \nFirst Saturday of every month at The Community Works\n \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-23/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250204T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250204T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T164429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250124T130013Z
UID:8233-1738697400-1738706400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This Is Just to Say: spoken word open mic
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 2-3 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served and slots fill up quickly so we recommend arriving in good time for 7pm! \nAt OPL we want everyone to feel comfortable and has space to enjoy the night. That’s why we have a few basic guidelines that we ask everyone to follow: \n\nPlease refrain from using discriminatory language\, harmful content or excessive profanity in your performance. If you are unsure about your performance\, speak to the host when you arrive.\nYou should aim to read something that’s around one page or two minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nThe theme for this month’s session is WHERE I STAND. We invite you to explore the ground beneath your feet and how you got there. Take us on your journey! \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be Carl Tomlinson. Carl lives on a smallholding in rural Oxfordshire. His poems have appeared in Orbis\, South\, The Alchemy Spoon\, The Hope Valley Journal\, Spelt\, and several anthologies. In 2019 his poem Market Forces won the Shout out for the Oxford Covered Market competition\, and now forms part of the market’s audio guide. Carl’s debut pamphlet Changing Places was published in 2021 by Fair Acre Press. Helen Mort says of it that it ‘challenge[s] us to move beyond a naïve appreciation of the ‘natural’ and recognise the ways that our landscapes have been profoundly altered by human presence’. \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive from 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say-spoken-word-open-mic-26/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250208T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250208T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T161857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T073739Z
UID:8226-1739023200-1739030400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Note that these sessions will now happen online – links to the Zoom sessions will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events.\n \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm\, online. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-2/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250210T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250210T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240407T155240Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240407T155240Z
UID:6154-1739214000-1739219400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started With Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-25/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250214T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250214T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250108T110239Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T110347Z
UID:8951-1739539800-1739547000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nFrom 2025\, Friday opening hours at the Library are making way for Write Space\, a new pop-up place for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. For two hours every other Friday\, come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm Every other Friday\, January-March 2025 (and hopefully beyond!) \nWhere is it?\nThe event space at the Community Works\, Park End Street. \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who would value this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nSave your spot by registering via the link below.\n(We’re asking everyone to pre-book during our pilot phase so we can plan well and make sure there’s plenty of space for all.) \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nWe’ll start with a gentle writer’s warm-up then we’ll work in peace on our projects. We’ll take a short break before a second block of writing. If you arrive between those times\, you’re welcome to settle in quietly – we’ll look forward to chatting to you in the break! \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.  \nCan I bring my kids/ pets/ friends?\nGreat question! We are exploring setting up a Write Space special edition with space for babies but for now it’s for (human) adults. Friends are welcome – make sure they book themselves a spot!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-3/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250215T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250215T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241220T145101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250119T105721Z
UID:8749-1739628000-1739635200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Reading Circle
DESCRIPTION:People who never read poetry don’t write poems that are worth reading – Wendy Cope \n  \nIf you’re keen to find a way in to reading and appreciating poetry\, discover new writing\, and open your mind to the world of poetry\, welcome to The Reading Circle. Come to OPL’s poetry reading group where we’ll share and discuss poems written in the 20th and 21st centuries in a relaxed and inclusive peer-led environment. \n  \nQuestions we’ll be asking include: \nWhat makes a poem ‘work’?  \nWhy do we like a poem? Why don’t we?  \nIs there such a thing as a fashionable poem? Does it matter?  \nCan we love a poem we don’t fully understand? What makes mystery different to obscurity?  \nWhat might we learn from other poets that can help us enrich our own craft? \n  \nThe Reading Circle meets on the third Saturday of each month\, 2-4 pm in The Community Works. \nWe suggest a donation to attend each session: £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more) and registration is required here. Donations are optional and shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, but all proceeds go to the running costs of the Oxford Poetry Library and our ability to continue providing these sorts of sessions. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Alan Buckley and Vanessa Lampert. \n  \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-reading-circle-11/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Reading-Circle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250216T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250216T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241213T164712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T121601Z
UID:8683-1739707200-1739718000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Family Sunday
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 3rd Sunday of every month\, where The Community Works will be open for Family Sunday! The library will be open for browsing\, borrowing\, or just hanging out to read\, write\, and relax. Lula’s Ethiopian Cuisine will be open for an affordable buffet\, and we will provide a safe\, inclusive space for food\, fun\, and play. \nAll are welcome to The Community Works between 12pm and 3pm to drop in for free – we’ll have books for young and old\, poetry games and activities\, and as always\, our friendly and welcoming librarian volunteers. \nWe will also have storytelling from Yaz Jenkins! Yaz Jenkins is a Oxford born story teller\, actor and writer. She gained her BA in Acting at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and previously worked as a Story Guide at the Story Musuem\, telling stories to children and their families. She loves combining all her different creative skills to bring a story to life.  \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/family-sunday/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Family-Sunday-poster.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250217T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250217T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250102T154843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T161218Z
UID:8867-1739820600-1739827800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- February Session
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our February online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-february-session/
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250222T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250222T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241206T120950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T114502Z
UID:8557-1740232800-1740240000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Cringe Clinic: A workshop
DESCRIPTION:Join poet and performer Michaela Brady for this exclusive one-off workshop on Saturday 22 February\, from 2pm-4pm at The Community Works! \nWelcome to the Cringe Clinic. You are invited to a journey to your poetic past. Scour your earliest notebook\, Notes App entries or other scribblings and find a poem that\, upon reflection\, deserves redemption. At the Cringe Clinic\, you’ll learn editing techniques to give your poem a little polish\, while preserving your authentic voice from years ago. Ideally\, you will leave with a poem you would like to continue revising\, or even submit for publication. If nothing else\, this workshop will allow you to reconnect and make peace with the poet you were\, and give your work a second chance to shine. \nThis session is suitable for all writers aged 18+ and all materials will be provided – just bring your cringiest poems\, and an open mind! \nRegistration is required and tickets are in a tiered system\, based on what you can afford: £5 for general admission\, £2 concession\, or £10 for those able to give a bit more. The ticket cost shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, so if you are unable to pay\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate you. Please register your spot here! \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/cringe-clinic-a-workshop/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,Community Event,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Cringe-Clinic-for-Long-Lost-Poems.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250223T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250223T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240625T123955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T114347Z
UID:6995-1740315600-1740322800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table Performance Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Drafting Table\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. Just bring a willingness to receive and provide feedback with the whole group! \nOnce a month\, we invite a published poet to join us. There will be a short reading of their poems followed by a workshop where attendees can learn more about the creative process\, get an insight into what it means to be a poet\, and share our work with them. \nThis month’s poet is Paul Henry. Paul’s books include Ingrid’s Husband\, Boy Running and The Brittle Sea: New  & Selected Poems. Originally a songwriter\, a performance version of his collection The Glass Aisle\, featuring songs co-written with Brian Briggs (Stornoway)\, toured UK festivals. Paul regularly tutors at The Garsdale Retreat and at Ty Newydd. He’s also presented arts programmes for Radio Wales\, Radio 3 and Radio 4. As If To Sing\, his latest Seren collection\, won the Wales Book of the Year Poetry Award. \nhttp://www.paulhenrypoet.co.uk \n“He takes his place as one of the most important Welsh poets now writing.” – Carol Ann Duffy\n“Paul Henry has much of his compatriot R.S.Thomas’s gift\, in that poet’s later work\, for terse\, coolly forthright insightfulness.” –  The TLS\n“One of the best lyric poets currently writing.” – Hugo Williams \n  \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-performance-session-19/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250228T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250228T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T165747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T165747Z
UID:8264-1740742200-1740747600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic
DESCRIPTION:Hey! The rumours are true. It’s… \nThe Hip Crowd Open Mic! \n\nOxford Poetry Library and Makespace Oxford bring you an open mic event especially for folks with babes-in-arms\, but also open to all and everyone. \nIf you’re feeling like daytime is the right time for you to entertain or be entertained\, join us at The Community Works on the last Friday of every month. The action begins at 11.30am\, but performers please do arrive from 11am to sign up for your turn on the stage. \nWe welcome poetry\, music\, storytelling\, comedy and whatever else you think might dazzle in a 5-minute slot \nThe entire event will be baby friendly and baby welcoming\, with lots of floor space at the front\, changing facilities\, buggy parking area outside\, and clear walkways to exit the performance area easily if needed.  There will also be that most beautiful and warmly appreciated of gifts: free tea and coffee provided. \nThe event is non-ticketed\, but costs £5 to spectate (£2 for concessions) and is totally free to performers. \nBe there or be square.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-hip-crowd-open-mic-6/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250228T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250228T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250108T110244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T110357Z
UID:8947-1740749400-1740756600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nFrom 2025\, Friday opening hours at the Library are making way for Write Space\, a new pop-up place for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. For two hours every other Friday\, come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm Every other Friday\, January-March 2025 (and hopefully beyond!) \nWhere is it?\nThe event space at the Community Works\, Park End Street. \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who would value this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nSave your spot by registering via the link below.\n(We’re asking everyone to pre-book during our pilot phase so we can plan well and make sure there’s plenty of space for all.) \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nWe’ll start with a gentle writer’s warm-up then we’ll work in peace on our projects. We’ll take a short break before a second block of writing. If you arrive between those times\, you’re welcome to settle in quietly – we’ll look forward to chatting to you in the break! \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.  \nCan I bring my kids/ pets/ friends?\nGreat question! We are exploring setting up a Write Space special edition with space for babies but for now it’s for (human) adults. Friends are welcome – make sure they book themselves a spot!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-4/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250301T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250301T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240625T122433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T121734Z
UID:6971-1740834000-1740841200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table Workshop Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our poetry drafting group\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. If you feel you’d like to join us\, please bring along at least one unfinished\, unpublished work-in-progress that you’re willing to share with the whole group. We are normally able to hear and give feedback to around 6 or 7 poets per session. \nRegular attendance is encouraged\, to help us build a trusting and collaborative community. \nFeel free to email queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com \nWe meet: \n1-3pm \nFirst Saturday of every month at The Community Works\n \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-24/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250304T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250304T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T164547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T122707Z
UID:8236-1741116600-1741125600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This is Just To Say
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 2-3 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served and slots fill up quickly so we recommend arriving in good time for 7pm! \nAt OPL we want everyone to feel comfortable and has space to enjoy the night. That’s why we have a few basic guidelines that we ask everyone to follow: \n\nPlease refrain from using discriminatory language or harmful content in your performance. If you are unsure about your performance\, speak to the host when you arrive.\nYou should aim to read something that’s around one page or two minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage is Yasmin Inkersole! Yasmin is a British-Turkish poet and novelist from Oxfordshire. Her poems have been published by The Poetry Society\, The Frogmore Press\, Artemesia Arts and Winchester Poetry Festival\, and taught on MA Translation courses. She is a previous Foyle Young Poet of the Year. Alongside poetry\, Yasmin writes sci-fi and fantasy novels in the company of her fluffy spaniel. Yasmin holds an MA in Creative Writing and is a PhD Writing student specialising in post-Ottoman fantasy novels. \nThe theme for this month is MOTHER TONGUE. We invite you to explore language in whatever way that means to you – through your own native language(s) and ancestral roots\, homegrown dialects\, or just the ways we bend and blend words. This event is part of Makespace Oxford’s series of International Women’s Day celebrations so might also wish to explore the idea of the motherland\, and motherhood. Or all of the above! \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive from 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand! \n  \nThis event is part of Makespace Oxford‘s series of events in celebration of International Women’s Day held throughout Women’s History Month\, designed to celebrate\, platform\, and showcase women’s voices. Find out more here. \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250308T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250308T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20241115T162652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T073833Z
UID:8228-1741442400-1741449600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Note that these sessions will take place online – links to the Zoom sessions will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events.  \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-3/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250310T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250310T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20240407T155342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250228T132257Z
UID:6157-1741633200-1741638600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started With Poetry (International Women's Day edition)
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \n\nTo mark International Women’s Day\, the poem for this session will be “Love Letters to the Fixers” and the discussion will revolve around labels\, roles and celebration. The session is\, as always\, open to everyone. We are delighted to be part of Makespace Oxford‘s series of events in celebration of International Women’s Day held throughout Women’s History Month\, designed to celebrate\, platform\, and showcase women’s voices. You can find out more about their other events here. \n\nAs usual\, there will be plenty of time to write\, and more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written\, if you’d like to\, in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-26/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250314T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250314T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220958
CREATED:20250108T110249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T121749Z
UID:8948-1741959000-1741966200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nFrom 2025\, Friday opening hours at the Library are making way for Write Space\, a new pop-up place for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. For two hours every other Friday\, come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm Every other Friday\, January-March 2025 (and hopefully beyond!) \nWhere is it?\nThe event space at the Community Works\, Park End Street. \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who would value this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nSave your spot by registering via the link below.\n(We’re asking everyone to pre-book during our pilot phase so we can plan well and make sure there’s plenty of space for all.) \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nWe’ll start with a gentle writer’s warm-up then we’ll work in peace on our projects. We’ll take a short break before a second block of writing. If you arrive between those times\, you’re welcome to settle in quietly – we’ll look forward to chatting to you in the break! \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.  \nCan I bring my kids/ pets/ friends?\nGreat question! We are exploring setting up a Write Space special edition with space for babies but for now it’s for (human) adults. Friends are welcome – make sure they book themselves a spot!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-5/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Write-Space-final-image.png
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