National Poetry Month

National Poetry Month

Celebrate National Poetry Month at LPL

The Lexington Public Library is celebrating National Poetry Month throughout April! Find reading recommendations, explore Lexington’s rich literary history, and discover fun ways to get involved.

National Poetry Month Staff Picks

National Poetry Month Staff Picks

Browse our catalog for books and other titles related to National Poetry Month.

SEARCH THE CATALOG

Featured Podcasts

Tune into our Turning the Page podcast as LPL librarians sit down with local and nationally renowned authors to discuss their work, lived experiences, and journeys as writers.

Gay Poems for Red States (2023)

Gay Poems for Red States (2023)
David interviews Willie Carver, Jr., Kentucky Poet and 2022 KY Teacher of the Year, about his book Gay Poems for Red States. They discuss his poetry, growing up gay in 90s Appalachia, and how school book bans affect students.
In Conversation with Nikky Finney (2025)

In Conversation with Nikky Finney (2025)
Renowned poet and professor Nikky Finney shares her journey, illuminating the Southern cultural and political heritage of Black people and her path to becoming an award-winning literary icon.
Poetry Chat! (2023)

Poetry Chat! (2023)
Jennifer and Erin discuss their experiences with poetry growing up, memorizing and reciting "Annabel Lee" in grade school, and share their favorite poems. Kentucky poets Savannah Sipple-McGraw and Danni Quintos also join to read selections from their work.
In Conversation with Frank X. Walker (2026)

In Conversation with Frank X. Walker (2026)
Frank X Walker, co-founder of the Affrilachian literary movement and former Kentucky Poet Laureate, shares his journey and how storytelling shapes cultural identity.

An Evening with Silas House

An Evening with Silas House

Join the Lexington Public Library Foundation on Tuesday, April 21, at 6:00pm for an evening with award-winning author Silas House as he discusses his first book of poetry, All These Ghosts, offering a glimpse into the inspiration and stories behind his poetic debut.

This event is an opportunity to engage with House’s work, as well as the 1795 Society, a community of philanthropic leaders who invest in the library’s long-term strength and innovation. Tickets are available for purchase for $25 each. Seating is limited. Click the link below to reserve your ticket today.

Purchase tickets

From the Kentucky Room

The True American (1845-1847)

The True American (1845-1847)
Founded in Lexington by Cassius Marcellus Clay in 1845, The True American was an anti-slavery newspaper. After controversy, it moved to Cincinnati until 1847. The newspaper featured poetry, news, and more.
Literary Lexington Walking Tour

Literary Lexington Walking Tour
Explore over 200 years of history on this 1-mile self-guided walking tour through downtown Lexington. Starting at Central Library, discover each stop's history, cultural significance, and role in Lexington's literary legacy.