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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260220T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260220T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260109T161623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161623Z
UID:12713-1771588800-1771596000@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?\n12-2pm on the third Friday of each month (currently booking to June 2026). \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-21/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260221T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260221T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251117T094621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T142625Z
UID:12252-1771682400-1771689600@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 contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) 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. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Alan Buckley and Carl Tomlinson. \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-20/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Reading-Circle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260222T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260222T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T125008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T121441Z
UID:12736-1771765200-1771772400@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. This month we will be joined by Laura Theis. \nLaura Theis grew up in a place where each street was named after a different fairy tale. She writes in her second language. Her work has appeared in Poetry\, Oxford Poetry\, Magma\, Rattle\, The Irish Times\, Berlin Lit\, and others. Her accolades include the Caterpillar Poetry Prize\, the Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize\, the Oxford Brookes Poetry Prize\, the Hammond House International Literary Award\, the AM Heath Prize\, the Mogford Short Story Prize\, and a Forward Prize nomination. Her poetry debut was the winner of the Brian Dempsey Memorial Prize\, an Oxford Poetry Library Book-of-the-Month\, and an Elgin Award nominee. Her collection A Spotter’s Guide To Invisible Things won the Live Canon Collection Prize and received the Arthur Welton Award from the Society of Authors. Her book\, Introduction to Cloud Care\, was published by Broken Sleep Books in 2025 and her children’s debut Poems from a Witch’s Pocket\, came out in September. \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-10/
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:20260227T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260227T133000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T170329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T212318Z
UID:12052-1772191800-1772199000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic: CANCELLED
DESCRIPTION:PLEASE NOTE THIS MONTH’S HIP CROWD IS CANCELLED! We’ll see you in March! \n  \nHey! 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-17/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260303T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260303T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T165340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T162147Z
UID:12031-1772566200-1772575200@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 2-3 minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nTo celebrate the turning of the season\, we’re doing something a little bit different this month. We will be bouncing into spring with celebratory energy and growth\, so our featured performer will be everybody! That’s right – we’re going for a bumper crop of voices. Rather than having a featured slot\, we’re cramming in as many performers as we can and celebrating the diversity of the community we’ve got here. Theme is ABUNDANCE. \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-38/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Reading / Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260307T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260307T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T130705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T130705Z
UID:12766-1772888400-1772895600@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 – enter via the side entrance for the Event Space \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-34/
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:20260309T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260309T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251129T105557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251129T105557Z
UID:12364-1773082800-1773088200@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-38/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260314T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260314T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251228T104313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T104313Z
UID:12597-1773496800-1773504000@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-13/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ONLINE-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer-ONLINE1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260316T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260316T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260102T091647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T092101Z
UID:12654-1773689400-1773696600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- March
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. \nThere’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-march/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,Community Event,LGBTQAI+,online,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260320T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260320T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260109T161631Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161631Z
UID:12714-1774008000-1774015200@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?\n12-2pm on the third Friday of each month (currently booking to June 2026). \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-22/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260321T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260321T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251117T094826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T142804Z
UID:12255-1774101600-1774108800@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 contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) 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. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Vanessa Lampert and Carl Tomlinson. \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-21/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Reading-Circle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260327T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260327T133000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T170421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251024T170421Z
UID:12054-1774611000-1774618200@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-18/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260328T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260328T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260123T131850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T151243Z
UID:12853-1774702800-1774713600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Mentor-a-thon
DESCRIPTION:A once-a-year opportunity to be mentored by award-winning and widely published poets\, Vanessa Lampert and Tina Sederholm\, at a price you name! \nWould you like…\nIn-depth personalised feedback on up to four poems? Or a bespoke performance skill session. Maybe you fancy advice on putting together your first pamphlet or collection. Tina and Vanessa are here to help with any of your poetry-related questions. \nSimply book a 30 minute session by filling out this Google form. \nCost: Pay What you Feel. This is a fundraiser. All proceeds go to support Oxford Poetry Library\, and our goal is at least £200. A £5 deposit will secure your slot\, then make the rest of your donation on the day by cash or card. Only 10 slots available\, so book soon! \nSaturday 28th March\, 1-4 pm \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.\n \n\nMore about your mentors: \nVanessa Lampert\nVanessa Lampert is a writer\, mentor\, editor and teacher of poetry. Her work is widely published\, recently in Magma\, The Oxford Times\, The Rialto\, The London Magazine\, Under the Radar\, Oxford Poetry\, and Poetry London. She runs workshops nationwide for adults and in schools. She was a co-founder of The Alchemy Spoon magazine and is a committee member for Poetry in Aldeburgh. \nVanessa has won the Café Writers\, Edward Thomas\, Ashdown Forest and Sentinel prizes and the Ver Poetry prize (twice). She has been placed in many others including commendations in the Troubadour\, Magma\, Bridport\, Verve\, and National Competitions. \nVanessa’s pamphlet On Long Loan was published by Live Canon in 2020 and her full collection Say It With Me was published by Seren in 2023. Poems from that collection have been published in the Daily Telegraph poem of the week and the Forward Prizes anthology 2024. \nTina Sederholm\nTina started out as a performance poet\, winning more than 20 slams before creating five one-woman spoken word shows\, which she performed at the Edinburgh Fringe seven times. Her last show\, This Is Not Therapy\, was commended for ‘Best Show’ at the Buxton Fringe 2023\, and was a Three Weeks’ ‘Tried and Tested’ pick at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe. \nShe also loves writing for the page and has published two collections\, Everything Wrong With You Is Beautiful and This Is Not Therapy\, (Burning Eye). Her poetry has featured in over 20 publications\, including Atrium\, IOTA\, Interpreter’s House\, Ink\, Sweat and Tears and Under the Radar. She was Highly Commended in Verve Poetry Festival competition 2024\, and shortlisted for the 2025 Poetry Library Free Verse competition. \nTina wrote three non-fiction books on training horses and was an equestrian journalist before she turned her attention to poetry.  She now works as an editor and mentor\, specialising in poetry and memoir\, and runs The Mourning Pages\, a month-long online retreat to help creatives recover from burnout. \nHer next show\, Everything’s Working Out Poetically\, will be at the Old Fire Station Oxford\, on Thursday 30th April.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/mentor-a-thon/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/mentorathon-v1_page-0001.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260329T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260329T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T125155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T153321Z
UID:12739-1774789200-1774796400@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. This month we will be joined by Mary Jean Chan. \nTHIS EVENT IS TICKETED AND BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL: https://draftingtablemarch26.eventbrite.com \nMary Jean Chan is the author of Flèche (Faber\, 2019)\, which won the Costa Book Award for Poetry. Bright Fear (Faber\, 2023)\, Chan’s second book\, was shortlisted for the Forward Prize for Best Collection. Chan is currently Departmental Lecturer in Poetry on the MSt in Creative Writing at the University of Oxford. \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-11/
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:20260404T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260404T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T130837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T130837Z
UID:12769-1775307600-1775314800@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 – enter via the side entrance for the Event Space \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-35/
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:20260407T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260407T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T165434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T144955Z
UID:12033-1775590200-1775599200@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 2-3 minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nThe theme for this month’s session is LEARNING HOW TO SEE. We want your fresh perspectives\, your new ways of looking: at yourself\, each other\, or the world. Should be an eye-opening evening! \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be Lee Campbell! Dr Lee Campbell is an artist\, poet\, filmmaker\, co-curator of POW! Play on Words (a regular spoken word platform in London along with Colin B. Osborn) and Senior Lecturer at University of the Arts London. His debut poetry collection ‘See Me: An (Almost) Autobiography’ was published by London Poetry Books in November 2024. Other publications of his poetry include The Atticus Review\, Ink\, Sweat and Tears\, Otherwise\, You Are Here – The Journal of Creative Geography\, Queerlings\, Streetcake\, Step Away Magazine\, London Grip and Flight of the DragonFly. His chapbook ‘Queering the Landscape’ was shortlisted for the 2024 Broken Spine Chapbook Poetry Competition. In 2025\, he headlined at many established poetry platforms including The Word Zoo\, Rhymes and Stitches\, Big Trouble and Medway Poetry Night\, Testing Grounds and The Poetry Shack. His experimental performance poetry films have been selected for many international film festivals and prizes since 2019 including shortlisted for Best Poetry Film at the Out-Spoken Poetry Prize 2023\, Queen Elizabeth Hall\, Southbank Centre\, London. \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-39/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Reading / Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260411T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260411T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251228T104433Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T104433Z
UID:12600-1775916000-1775923200@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-14/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ONLINE-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer-ONLINE1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260413T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260413T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251129T110510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251129T110510Z
UID:12367-1776106800-1776112200@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-39/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260417T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260417T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260109T161635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161635Z
UID:12715-1776427200-1776434400@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?\n12-2pm on the third Friday of each month (currently booking to June 2026). \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-23/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260420T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260420T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260102T092002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T195026Z
UID:12656-1776713400-1776720600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- April
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.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-april/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,Community Event,LGBTQAI+,online,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260424T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260424T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T170605Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251024T170605Z
UID:12056-1777030200-1777035600@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-12/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260426T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260426T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T125322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T125322Z
UID:12742-1777208400-1777215600@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. \nStay tuned for details of April’s poet! \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-12/
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:20260502T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260502T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260112T130959Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T130959Z
UID:12771-1777726800-1777734000@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 – enter via the side entrance for the Event Space \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-36/
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:20260505T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260505T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251024T165522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251024T165522Z
UID:12035-1778009400-1778018400@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 2-3 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 will be announced nearer the time. \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-40/
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Reading / Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260509T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260509T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251228T104551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T104551Z
UID:12602-1778335200-1778342400@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-15/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ONLINE-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer-ONLINE1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260511T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260511T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251129T142351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251129T142351Z
UID:12370-1778526000-1778531400@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-40/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260515T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260515T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260109T161639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161639Z
UID:12716-1778846400-1778853600@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?\n12-2pm on the third Friday of each month (currently booking to June 2026). \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-24/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260516T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260516T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251117T095431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T102150Z
UID:12258-1778940000-1778947200@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 contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) 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. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Alan Buckley\, Vanessa Lampert\, and Carl Tomlinson. \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-22/
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:20260518T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260518T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20260102T092257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T195121Z
UID:12661-1779132600-1779139800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- May
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. \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-may/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,Community Event,LGBTQAI+,online,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260523T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260523T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T182556
CREATED:20251219T105616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T114416Z
UID:12540-1779562800-1779571800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Unravelling History & The Material of Living
DESCRIPTION:Join four poets for a reading that delves into the myriad personal and collective worlds\, where you find stories of survival and loss; of ecological crisis and the material of living; memories of the sensous in all its skin and glitter; and the complexity of our inner selves. \nOn Saturday 23 May at The Community Works at 7pm\, poets Mona Arshi\, Troy Cabida\, Nina Mingya Powles and Jennifer Wong will be sharing work from their recent collections. \nTickets are £5 (£2 concessions) – please book tickets in advance here! \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand. \n  \nMona Arshi’s debut poetry collection\, Small Hands\, won the Forward Prize for Best First Collection in 2015. Her second collection\, Dear Big Gods\, was published in 2019 and her novel Somebody Loves You in 2021. She has been appointed as Honorary Professor at the University of Liverpool and Fellow in Creative Arts at Trinity College\, Cambridge\, and is also co-editor of an anthology of nature poetry\, Nature Matters: Vital Poems from the Global Majority (Faber\, 2025). Her third collection of Poetry Mouth was published in 2025 by Chatto. Prior to her career in poetry\, she worked as a human rights lawyer\, often representing refugees and women fleeing domestic violence. \nTroy Cabida is the author of Neon Manila (2025)\, a Poetry Book Society Recommendation. His pamphlets include War Dove (2020) and Symmetric of Bone: poems after Elsa Peretti (2024)\, a Poetry Book Society Pamphlet Choice. \nNina Mingya Powles is an Aotearoa New Zealand writer and poet based in London. She is the author of several poetry collections and pamphlets\, most recently In the Hollow of the Wave (2024)\, Magnolia 木蘭 (2020) and two books of creative nonfiction\, Tiny Moons: A Year of Eating in Shanghai (2020) and Small Bodies of Water (2021). She writes a monthly e-newsletter on food and memory called Crispy Noodles. \nJennifer Wong: author of Light Year (Nine Arches Press\, 2026) and 回家 Letters Home (Nine Arches Press\, 2020) which received the PBS recommendation\, and pamphlets including time difference (Verve\, 2024).
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/jenny-wong-reading/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Reading / Launch
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