OHIO POETRY DAY TAKEOVER

Saturday, October 17

Art Loop: Ohio Poetry Day Takeover
Saturday, October 17 | 12-4 pm | Main Branch Library (325 N. Michigan Street)

The Arts Commission partners with the Ohio Poetry Day Association and the Toledo Lucas County Public Library for a celebration of Ohio poets! Enjoy readings by writers from around the state, poetry-themed activities, word games and puzzles, typewriters and a pop-up poetry bookstore.

We’re delighted to introduce two new Poets Laureate to the Toledo community: Ohio’s new Laureate, Edward A. Julian Sr. from Columbus, and Lucas County’s newly-appointed Laureate, Sandra Rivers-Gill. Together with readings by former laureates Joel Lipman, Jim Ferris and Jonie McIntire all together in one space, it’s a day of poetry not to be missed!

The schedule of readings and activities will be announced soon.

Admission and all activities are free; snacks and merchandise available for purchase.

Click here to submit an application to participate.

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About Edward A. Julian Sr.

Appointed in 2026, Edward A. Julian Sr. is Ohio’s fourth Poet Laureate and founder of The Begin Within Initiative. Author of From Inmate to Advocate: A Journey of Transformation, Edward also teaches life skills, poetry, personal development and reentry programming in schools, correctional institutions, and communities throughout Ohio. His work is rooted in accountability, education, personal growth and the belief that transformation begins from within.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Edward now lives in Columbus, Ohio.

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About Sandra Rivers-Gill

Sandra Rivers-Gill is the fourth Lucas County Poet Laureate. Her poetry is known for familial and social consciousness and resilience. An award-winning poet, performer and playwright, her work has been featured in numerous publications, and her debut poetry chapbook is As We Cover Ourselves With Light. She is editor of poetry collections written by people of color, women in recovery and aging adults.

Sandra has served as a board member and poetry instructor for the Naomi Inc treatment facility, and a poetry instructor for Otterbein Senior Living Communities. She is a teaching artist for the Ohio Arts Council, and the inaugural Poet Ambassador of Northwest Ohio representing the Ohio Poetry Association.

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The Arts Commission
1000 Adams Street
Toledo, Ohio 43604
419-254-ARTS (2787)

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30am - 4:30pm

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access Statement

Inclusion, diversity, equity and access are fundamentally important to our work at The Arts Commission. Our aim is to provide access and opportunity to art and culture for all in our community. It is our committed practice to stand alongside, listen and act based upon community needs. We have a responsibility to advocate for inclusion, diversity, equity and access. The Arts Commission will continue to deepen this practice as we move into the future.

The Arts Commission believes that the arts can provide the space to foster conversations that bring us together. The arts have long stood in the gap as a bridge between cultures. They have served as a place to support healing, as well as a place to develop and exchange compassion. We trust the arts in this role. By embracing our differences and celebrating our similarities we build a more vibrant, just, and inclusive society.

Terms

All content on this site is presented in support of Toledo's creative community and is made available as such.

Accessibility

The Arts Commission strives to provide programming and events in an inclusive manner in accessible spaces and venues. Should you wish to visit or participate and need accommodation, please contact us at 419-254-2787.