Tips for Publicizing Poetry Events

• Publicize each event with a flyer. Distribute flyers at least four weeks beforehand.
• Have all identifying information on flyers up front and easily visible. Remember that poetry is for everyone. Post flyers everywhere--in your library, in your neighborhood laundromats and cleaners, cafés, bookstores, shop windows.  (Travel with a roll of tape in your pocket!)
• Begin a mailing list and faithfully send out publicity for each event. Send direct mailings about events to other libraries and local newspapers.  People who attend programs are likely to come back and use the collection.  Publicity for programs and events is also a way to bring people into the library and to the collection. Maximize the opportunity by making sure your direct mail list is notified in time to attend.
• Use "Writers Live at the Library" materials to promote events featuring poets. Posters, bookmarks, postcards, totebags, and other items are available from the ALA (800) 545-2433.
• Make a personal connection with local bookstores. They can help you arrange to get poets who are reading in their stores to do piggy-back visits to your site.

For in-depth information on publicizing poetry events, ideas for developing audiences, sample press materials and more, order the PITB Sourcebook