The Poetry Foundation is a poetry library and cultural center at 61 W Superior St in Chicago’s River North. Its quiet reading room, courtyard and gallery make room for both browsing and taking a pause from the city. You can explore rotating poetry exhibitions, read from the library’s collection or plan around a public event, such as an author reading or musical performance. Entry is free, and the building is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM.
A home for poetry in Chicago
The Poetry Foundation grew from the magazine Poetry, founded by Harriet Monroe in 1912. Monroe wanted the magazine to support poets and the work of artists. The foundation’s building, which opened in 2011, gave the magazine its first permanent home in its centennial year. It was also the first building in Chicago dedicated to poetry.
At 61 W Superior St in River North, the center brings a library, exhibition gallery, courtyard and performance space together under one roof. The building was designed by John Ronan Architects. Its restrained modern design keeps the focus on the books, the exhibitions and the events taking place inside.
Reading, exhibitions and events
The library is devoted to poetry, with books and anthologies for a wide range of readers. Find a seat in the reading room to browse at your own pace, or look for complimentary copies of Poetry magazine. The quiet setting suits a short reading stop as well as time spent exploring the collection.
The gallery presents rotating exhibitions focused on poetry. What is on view changes, so check the foundation’s website if you have a particular exhibition in mind. The courtyard provides another place to pause during a visit.
Public programs include author readings, musical performances, discussions, workshops and book clubs. Some events bring poetry together with music, while others focus on conversation or learning. Check the calendar before setting out, and consider arranging event tickets in advance.
Planning your visit
The Poetry Foundation is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, from 11 AM to 5 PM; it is closed Sunday through Tuesday. Admission is free. For a visit centered on an event, check the website for current details rather than relying on a drop-in visit to match the program you want to attend.
The entrance, restrooms and seating are wheelchair accessible. The address is 61 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654. After your visit, you can walk around the historic neighborhood; the foundation itself is a calm place to read, view an exhibition or attend a program.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is the Poetry Foundation free to visit?
Yes. Entry to the Poetry Foundation is free.
When is the Poetry Foundation open?
It is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM, and closed Sunday through Tuesday.
What can you do at the Poetry Foundation?
Browse the poetry library, see a rotating exhibition, read in the reading room or courtyard, and attend public programs such as readings and performances.
Is the Poetry Foundation wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restrooms and seating are wheelchair accessible.
