The International Poetry Library of San Francisco is the first public library and resource center on the West Coast dedicated solely to poetry. Modeled after both The Poetry Library in London's Southbank Centre and Poets House in New York City, the poetry library will be the first of its kind, where the public can borrow, browse, and buy volumes of poetry in various formats. The International Poetry Library of San Francisco will also offer audio, video, and touch screen stations, as well as exhibit space. Space for quiet study and archives will be provided, as well as areas dedicated to specific international poets of great interest such as Antonio Machado, Pablo Neruda, Marina Tsvetaeva, Rumi, or Czeslaw Milosz. A gift shop will provide visitors a space to relax and purchase poetry books, writing-related supplies, and gifts. The International Poetry Library of San Francisco is a California non-profit corporation with 501(c) (3) tax-exemption status.
Read San Francisco's former Poet Laureate Jack Hirschman's letter of support. (pdf)
Learn more about our growing collection. We welcome both financial and book contributions.