mission

 The aim of The LOFT is to promote the joy of writing and sharing poetry and prose, and the development and publishing of quality writing;  to broaden the audience of poetry by providing workshops, events, outreach, and continuing support for writers as they hone their craft in a community of writers. 

We are dedicated to making a positive impact in the literary arts community of Rhode Island and beyond. Our creative writers, volunteers and guest authors provide the inspiration and momentum to learn our craft and share it with others.  

Founded by writer, editor and poet Beatice Lazarus in 2008, The Poetry Loft's format has evolved since its early days, when she gathered writers together in a "loft" space above a grocery store nestled on a hilltop in the heart of Cranston RI. Her core vision: How can we improve our craft and grow as writers? How can poetry make a difference in our lives and in the community?  

Thanks to the dedicated writers of our amazing literary community, the LOFT has produced and collaborated on many wonderful literary projects, bringing the literary arts community together in inspiring ways. A special nod goes to Barbara Schweitzer and the Origami Poems Project developed by Jan Keough and Lynnie Gobielle in the first year of the Poetry Loft. The micro-chapbooks made from one sheet of paper were initially inspired by a prompt given by award-winning poet Barbara Schweitzer in a Loft workshop. 

 In 2009, The Poetry Loft proudly became a non-profit literary arts organization, and was able to offer free ongoing workshops and a supportive writers' community through the generous donations of our patrons.

Past LOFT projects created by Poetry Loft founder and director Beatrice Lazarus include: The Providence Book Festival; GAINS programs in schools;  "Authors on Art" at URI's Feinstein Gallery, Writing Across Rhode Island, The Loft Poetry Prize, The Loft Anthology, The Loft Chapbook Awards, New England Poetry and Art Gala, Manuscript Consultations, Poetry Loft Press publications, book launch and award readings for both adults and teens, among other events. We have been honored to work with, and be inspired by, many of RI's finest writers. 

Beatrice Lazarus, Founder/ Director

Our team is made up of dedicated writers who are passionate about developing their craft. We are proud to partner with a variety of local organizations on various projects. Our partners help us extend our reach and impact in our communities. We have been honored to work with so many LOFT friends, and supporters,  including the following esteemed associates and teachers, among others:

Denise Duhamel

Ann Hood 

Fred Marchant

Cathleen Calbert

Tom Chandler

Jane Lunin Perel

Lisa Starr

Julie Danho

Darcie Dennigan

Catherine Imbriglio

Richard Benjamin

Barbara Schweitzer

Noreen Inglesi /Notable Works

 The Poetry LOFT, PO Box 8235, Cranston, RI 02920 

info@thepoetryloft.org
 

Special thanks to our Volunteers/donors, including: James Cronin, Michael Crowley, Ira Schaeffer, Marilyn Murphy, Joan Fishbein, Diana Cole, Adele Bourne, Andrew Browder, Diane Dolphin, Nancy Brown, Sandra Moran, Karen Haskell, Barry Marshall, Noreen Inglesi.