My notion of the Poetry Now project is to create an audience for contemporary poetry in locales not generally immersed in the current poetry scene. Both rural and urban, these sites are populated by citizens of every hue and ethnic background.

The Poetry Now project has two complementary aspects. First, by visiting these spots, talking about Illinois poetry's rich history, and reading from my own work, I aim to persuade folks that current poets do indeed speak to the pressures and anxieties and beauties of our everyday lives. Second, by donating funds toward the purchase of contemporary poetry books at local libraries, I hope to ensure that area readers are exposed to poets writing in and of their own moment in history.

Libraries Receiving "Poetry Now" Funds
(Click on library to view books purchased)

Watseka, IL Public Library / November 9, 2004

Richland Community College / Library, Decatur, IL / April 1, 2005

Peoria, IL Public Library - April 5, 2005

Knox College Library / April 9, 2005

Elgin Community College Library / Elgin, IL / April 21, 2005

Columbia College Library / Chicago, IL / April 28, 2005

Wheaton Warrenville South High School, Warrenville, IL / May 10, 2005

Wheaton North High School, Wheaton, IL / May 10, 2005

Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL / September 25, 2005

Kankakee Community College, Kankakee, IL / September 29, 2005

Kennedy Junior High School, Lisle, IL / October 20, 2005