Literary Partners Program and Space Rentals
Poets House is a modern, inviting home for those who love poetry. Our eco-friendly building, where incomparable views of the Hudson River meet our unique 70,000-volume poetry collection, provides a distinctive setting for any event. Lined with windows and comfortable, quiet corners, Poets House is a one-of-a-kind space that brings sophistication and warmth to book launches, readings, performances, benefits, fundraisers, and meetings.
Our Literary Partners Program helps keep Poets House within reach for all members of our community. Any organization with a commitment to literature–from small presses to public schools to nonprofit organizations to individual writers–is eligible to rent our space at a special discounted rate. We offer reduced rates and institutional support for book launches, readings, receptions, and many other literary events.
All events held at Poets House must have a clear relationship to poetry or to Poets House’s mission. Keeping our space welcoming to all members of our diverse community is fundamental to our mission, and we expect that our renters also commit to thoughtful and inclusive programming.
To inquire about details, please reach out to Jane Preston.
The Margo Viscusi Reading Room
With sunset views of the Hudson Riverfront and our entire 70,000-volume poetry collection at your fingertips, the Reading Room is a warm and intimate venue for benefits, cocktail parties, book launches, and readings. Lined with windows overlooking the Hudson River and modular seating, the Reading Room also affords the opportunity for after-hours exploration of the library’s impressive collection of limited-edition chapbooks. The Reading Room is ideal for gatherings of up to 175 people.
Elizabeth Kray Hall
Honoring Poets House co-founder and long-time arts administrator Elizabeth (Betty) Kray, our airy ground-floor venue is a dynamic arena for both indoor and outdoor programming. Equipped inside with full audiovisual technology and retractable drapes, Kray Hall opens onto an outdoor amphitheater designed by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh. Seating can be arranged inside for up to 85 guests, and outside for up to 100.
The Stanley Kunitz Conference Room
Named after Poets House co-founder and two-time Poet Laureate of the United States Stanley Kunitz, our conference room is a comfortable and private setting perfect for meetings and classes. Located at the southwest corner of our building, the space provides unique views of the New York Harbor and the Irish Hunger Memorial. Equipped for conference calls and audiovisual presentations, the conference room provides round-table seating for up to 20 visitors.
Constance Laibe Hays Youth Center
Our Youth Center, home to our collection of children’s books, is a space uniquely designed to engage children’s imaginations. Here our youngest guests can compose poetry on old-fashioned typewriters or explore our wooden card catalog filled with handcrafted collages and inspiring poem prompts. Ideally suited for new readers, our Children’s Room hosts classes and performances for up to 20 participants.