On August 31, the new Class of National Student Poets was appointed at the Library of Congress in a special ceremony in Washington, D.C. While in Washington, the Student Poets were treated to a whirlwind of events celebrating their achievement. From library tours to workshops with esteemed poets, the Class of 2017 had an experience they won’t soon forget.

The Appointment Events for the Class of 2017 started off with a tour of the Library of Congress. During the tour, the poets learned about the history of the Jefferson Building, saw art-related mosaics, and discovered special points-of-interest in the building. They were also granted a visit to the Library’s stacks.

Poet and mentor Glenis Redmond led the Student Poets through a series of physical and vocal exercises to prepare them for their first public reading. The session also included a group performance of “The Truth” by Ted Joans.

At the Appointment Ceremony, Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew, Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, charged the new class of National Student Poets to “take poetry into our nation’s places of learning, into our schools, museums, our libraries, and community spaces. Reflect and amplify the multiple voices and stories around you. You are a key part of our nation’s future and the caliber of work and the strength of your passion tell me that the future is indeed bright.” Longtime supporter of the National Student Poets Program, actor, and activist Alfre Woodard presented the National Student Poets with their plaques.

After the Ceremony, the new National Student Poets participated in a poetry workshop with 21st U.S. Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry Juan Felipe Herrera, where they created a group poetry mural.

The National Student Poets also attended the National Book Festival. At the festival, the Student Poets led a workshop for younger students at the Scholastic Inc. booth. That afternoon, they shared their original works of poetry onstage at the Town Square.

The poets then attended the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ Pavilion of the States, where they were introduced by Dr. Matthew. At the event, they met library representatives from their regions to plan future poetry readings and workshops during their upcoming year of service.

The 2017 National Student Poets are ready to take on the challenge of literary ambassadors! Through the support of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and its vast network of libraries and museums, the Class of 2017 National Student Poets is well on its way to bringing each poet’s love of poetry to communities across the nation. The poets will be hosting workshops, readings, and more throughout the spring of 2018.

Stay tuned to see where the National Student Poets are headed next!