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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Oxford Poetry Library
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250405T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250405T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20240625T122518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T121708Z
UID:6973-1743858000-1743865200@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 Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. If you feel you’d like to join us\, please bring along at least one unfinished\, unpublished work-in-progress that you’re willing to share with the whole group.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-25/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250411T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250411T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171009Z
UID:9815-1744378200-1744385400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-7/
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-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250412T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250412T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241209T144125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T073915Z
UID:8602-1744466400-1744473600@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/
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/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250414T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250414T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250212T151615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T151615Z
UID:9380-1744657200-1744662600@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-27/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250425T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250425T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241115T170022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T170022Z
UID:8270-1745580600-1745586000@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-8/
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:20250425T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250425T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171050Z
UID:9819-1745587800-1745595000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-8/
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-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250427T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250427T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250320T122301Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T104113Z
UID:9762-1745758800-1745766000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Featured Poet 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 featured poet is Samantha Mineroff. A linguistics scholar and mental health advocate\, Samantha Mineroff has been writing creatively since she first held a pencil. Her novella was nationally recognized by Scholastic during the 2013 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. She became a passionate academic\, winning the 2018 Best Seminar Paper Award for her paper “The Rhetoric of Major Depressive Disorder: Performativity and Intra-activity of Emotions in Major Depression.” She was a recipient of the Viola Marple Scholarship and the Poetry Award\, and co authored the paper\, “Interpersonal touch and the achievement of shared understanding in English conversation\,” which was presented at The Language and Social Interaction Working Group conference at Teachers College\, Columbia. \nAfter graduating from West Chester University of Pennsylvania with an English degree and dual minors in creative writing and linguistics\, her professional writing grew\, and was featured on numerous mental health platforms\, including MedCentral. In 2019\, she presented her research on negative accommodation theory at the University of Liverpool during the Poetics and Linguistics Association conference. At just 23 twenty-three years old\, she was one of the youngest to present. \nWhen she isn’t writing or researching\, you’ll find her listening to live music\, singing and strumming a guitar\, strolling through parks\, and traveling the globe. \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-2/
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:20250428T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250428T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250102T155128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T160948Z
UID:8873-1745868600-1745875800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group -April 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 April 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-april-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:20250503T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250503T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20240625T122608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240625T122608Z
UID:6976-1746277200-1746284400@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-26/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250506T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250506T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241115T164802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250418T153606Z
UID:8242-1746559800-1746568800@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 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\nWe have a very special edition of This Is Just To Say this month: welcome to COVERS NIGHT! For just this month\, we’re asking you to bring the work of other people to share. It can be a well-known writer\, someone you admire\, a family member or friend – bonus points if it’s someone from our own OPL community! But the only rule is don’t bring your own! \nAnd fully in keeping with the ‘covers’ theme\, the night will be hosted not by our usual Phoebe Nicholson\, but by the hosts of the Poets Cafe in Reading\, Vic Pickup and Katherine Meehan! \nKatherine Meehan is a writer from North Carolina. Her work has appeared in Kenyon Review\, Magma\, Crannog\, Shearsman\, and other journals. In 2023\, her first collection\, Dame Julie Andrews’ Botched Vocal Cord Surgery\, was published by Two Rivers Press. She is a co-organiser of Reading’s Poets’ Cafe and is currently researching tarot ekphrasis for a practice-based PhD at the University of Reading. \nVic Pickup is the author of Lost & Found (Hedgehog Press\, 2020)\, What Colour is My Brain? (co-written with Jules Whiting\, Hedgehog Press 2022) and The Omniscient Tooth Fairy (Indigo Dreams\, 2023). She has also edited a new anthology from Two Rivers Press\, Reading Poets\, which was launched this summer. Vic is a postgraduate researcher\, working in the Mills & Boon archives held in Reading University’s Special Collections. She is the co-organiser of Poets’ Café Reading and Reading Stanza group\, both of which are affiliated with The Poetry Society. www.vicpickup.com \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-28/
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:20250509T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250509T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171121Z
UID:9820-1746797400-1746804600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-9/
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-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250510T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250510T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241209T145122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T151026Z
UID:8605-1746885600-1746892800@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-4/
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:20250512T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250512T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250212T151812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T151812Z
UID:9383-1747076400-1747081800@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-28/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250515T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250515T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250221T125427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250411T105317Z
UID:9499-1747337400-1747344600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Voices of Resistance
DESCRIPTION:On 15 May at 7.30pm in The Community Works\, join us for Voices of Resistance: an evening of powerful\, thought-provoking poetry that speaks to histories of migration\, conflict\, class\, exile\, and survival. Voices of Resistance brings together four poets\, Adnan Al-Sayegh\, Jenny Lewis\, Anna Robinson\, and Jude Rosen\, whose work confronts the politics of place\, memory\, and language. \nTickets are £5 (£2 conc) are available to register in advance here. \nJude Rosen is a second generation Jewish immigrant from the East End who grew up in Walthamstow. She is a former historian\, politics lecturer\, urban researcher/explorer and translator\, who now works with migrants and refugees. As a poet\, she explores the relationship of language to place\, drawing on archival and oral histories\, local ecology and etymology discovered through walking. Her pamphlet A Small Gateway was published by Hearing Eye (2009). Reclamations from London’s Edgelands\, (Paekakariki\, 2024) grew out of artistic resistance to the Olympic redevelopment in the Lea Valley. Some poems in that collection were published in The Art of Dissent\, (Marshgate Press\, 2012) South Bank Poetry London Anthology (2017)\, Long Poem Magazine and Envoi and were performed on poem and living history walks 2015-19\, (poemwalks.wordpress.com). A graduate of the Poetry School’s M.A.in Writing Poetry (Newcastle University\, 2022)\,  she is currently revising a long poem of refugee journeys and sequence of poems on Gaza. \nAnna Robinson is a poet and essayist from London. She writes on class and place. Her current collection Whatsname Street was published by Smokestack Books in 2021. Ian Macmillan described it as ‘superb!’ Her three previous books are The Night Library (2015) Into the Woods (2014)\, and The Finders of London (2011). \nAdnan al-Sayegh was born in Iraq in 1955 and he has published thirteen collections of poetry\, including the 550-page Uruk’s Anthem (1996)\, the 1380-page The Dice Of The Text (2022) and very short poems (2024). He left his homeland in 1993\, lived in Amman\, and Beirut then in 1996 took refuge in Sweden. Since 2004 he has been living in exile in London. His poems have been researched by PhD(10) and Masters(31) students. He has received several international awards; among them\, the Hellman-Hammet International Poetry Award (New York 1996)\, the Rotterdam International Poetry Award (1997) and the Swedish Writers Association Award (2005)\, and has been invited to read his poems in many festivals across the world. His poetry had been translated into many languages. Adnan has worked with Jenny Lewis for 15 years\, and they have published books\, plays and poetry readings in Britain and abroad. \nJenny Lewis’s recent work includes From Base Materials (Carcanet\, 2024) and Let me tell you what I saw (Seren\, 2020) a translation with others of extracts from the Iraqi poet Adnan Al-Sayegh’s epic anti-war poem\, Uruk’s Anthem. Since 2012 she has been working with Al-Sayegh on an award-winning\, Arts Council funded project\, ‘Writing Mesopotamia’\, aimed at fostering relationships and better understanding between Arabic and English-speaking communities. \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/voices-of-resistance/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Reading / Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Voices-of-Resistance.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250517T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250517T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250121T153205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T181002Z
UID:9126-1747490400-1747497600@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-13/
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:20250519T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250519T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250102T155324Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T155409Z
UID:8876-1747683000-1747690200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- May 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 May 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-may-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:20250523T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250523T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171200Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171200Z
UID:9821-1748007000-1748014200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-10/
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-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250525T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250525T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250320T122443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T130125Z
UID:9765-1748178000-1748185200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Featured Poet 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 featured poet is Daniel Sluman. Daniel is a 38-year-old poet and disability rights activist. He co-edited the first major UK Disability poetry anthology Stairs and Whispers: D/deaf and Disabled Poets Write Back\, and he has published three poetry collections with Nine Arches Press. His most recent collection\, single window was released in September 2021\, and was shortlisted for the TS Eliot Prize. He was a judge for the 2024 Forward Prizes. \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-3/
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:20250530T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250530T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241115T170217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T170217Z
UID:8276-1748604600-1748610000@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-10/
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:20250603T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250603T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241115T164849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T102754Z
UID:8245-1748979000-1748988000@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 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\nThe theme for this month is PACIFIC – as usual\, to be interpreted however you like. Maybe your work is along the peaceful\, tranquil side of things\, or maybe you’re delving to the rawest depths of oceanic inspiration. From the roar of waves to the hush of calm waters\, let your words drift or crash ashore. \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be John Gallas! John Gallas is an Aotearoa/NZ poet\, now living in Markfield\, Leics. Published by Carcanet (www.carcanet.co.uk): books include ‘The Extasie’\, ‘The Song Atlas’\, ‘Fresh Air & the Story of Molecule’\, ’52 Euros’\, ‘The Little Sublime Comedy’\, ‘Billy ‘Nibs’ Buckshot: The Complete Works’ (2024) etc.: also Indigo Dreams (’17 Very Pacific Poems’)\, Five Leaves (‘Mad John’s Walk’)\, Cerasus (‘The Gnawing Flood’) and Cold Hub (NZ) (‘Lying with Poets’\, ‘Pacifictions’); Fellow of the English Association\, St Magnus Festival Orkney Poet\, librettist\, translator\, John Clare ‘The Visit’ Poet\, Sutton Hoo Saxonship Company Poet (www.saxonship.org) and…in real life\, biker\, tramper\, and LCFC fox\, with a caravan-hideaway in a corner of Lincolnshire for not writing in. www.johngallaspoetry.co.uk for info\, Poem of the Month\, and news. \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive in time for 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-29/
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:20250607T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250607T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20240625T122653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240625T122653Z
UID:6978-1749301200-1749308400@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-27/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250609T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250609T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250212T151954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T152020Z
UID:9386-1749495600-1749501000@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-29/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250613T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250613T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171226Z
UID:9823-1749821400-1749828600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-11/
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-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250614T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250614T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241209T145335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T073935Z
UID:8609-1749909600-1749916800@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-5/
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/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250614T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250614T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250404T161951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T145924Z
UID:9966-1749909600-1749920400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Mapping Memories of My Oxford
DESCRIPTION:On June 14th\, drop in to The Community Works anytime between 2pm and 5pm for this zine-making and collage workshop as part of Makespace Oxford’s Common Futures programme of events. \nWhat does your Oxford look like? Is it the curve of a familiar street\, the echo of laughter in a hidden courtyard\, the place where a friendship first sparked? Whether you’re new to the city\, a lifelong resident\, or somewhere in between\, we invite you to map your memories of Oxford through poetry\, collage\, storytelling\, and art\, ultimately coming together to form a zine. \nWhere have you found joy\, creativity\, learning\, or connection? Through personal writing and drawing\, collaborative exercises\, and shared artwork\, we’ll create a collective portrait of the city—one shaped by lived experiences and individual perspectives. Join us in weaving together the Oxford that exists in memory\, emotion\, and imagination. \nOxford Poetry Library is a volunteer-run\, grassroots organization dedicated to fostering a love of poetry\, creative writing\, and spoken word in the heart of Oxford. Based at The Community Works\, we offer a free and open collection of poetry for readers of all ages\, backgrounds\, and tastes. Beyond our library\, we host a vibrant program of workshops\, open mics\, and events designed to connect people\, build community\, and make poetry accessible\, inclusive\, and fun for everyone. \nTickets are free but there’s a suggested donation of £5 to support the work of Makespace Oxford and Oxford Poetry Library\, or the option to donate more if you’re able. Please register your spot here so we know how many to expect!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/mapping-memories-of-my-oxford/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WhatsApp-Image-2019-10-20-at-14.24.471.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250616T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250616T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250102T155701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T155701Z
UID:8879-1750102200-1750109400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- June 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 June 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-june-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:20250621T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250621T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250121T181227Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T181227Z
UID:9132-1750514400-1750521600@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-14/
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:20250627T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250627T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20241115T170114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T113636Z
UID:8273-1751023800-1751029200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic (featuring Erica Hesketh)
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. This month we have a very special guest joining us for an exclusive featured performance and to help launch her debut collection: Erica Hesketh \nErica Hesketh is a poet and editor\, originally from Japan and Denmark\, now based in London. Widely published in magazines and journals\, her poetry has also been commissioned by the Royal Festival Hall\, Spread the Word and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. From 2016 to 2024 she was Director of the Poetry Translation Centre. Her debut collection\, In the Lily Room\, is out with Nine Arches Press in May. In the Lily Room tells a story of early motherhood. It examines a new mother’s journey through mental illness\, her relationships with her body\, her baby and other people\,a nd the often surreal landscape of mothering\, against a backdrop of a changing and uncertain world. You can read more info here.\n \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. \n  \nphoto credit: Christy Ku\n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-hip-crowd-open-mic-9/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250627T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250627T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250324T171254Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T171254Z
UID:9824-1751031000-1751038200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \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 values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-12/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250629T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250629T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T180334
CREATED:20250320T122640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T122640Z
UID:9768-1751202000-1751209200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Featured Poet 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 featured poet is Megan Kerr. Stay tuned for more details! \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-4/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
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