Poem in Your Pocket Day!

Did you know that Poem in Your Pocket Day is every April 30? On this day, folks carry a favorite poem in their pocket to share with anyone they meet. But how do we celebrate when we are keeping our distance and we can’t go to the library and check out the poetry section? There are lots of fun ways to celebrate together with friends and family near and far. Here are a few ideas from the American Academy of Poets and Brooklyn Public Library staff… 

• As a family, select a poem and share it on social media using the hashtag #pocketpoem or just share it with your family.
• Don’t yet have a favorite poem? Check out our list of poetry e-books and get one out with your library card! If they are checked out, place a hold and you’ll get it soon! 
• The Poetry Foundation has some great poems available to read online! HarperCollins has some classics from the wonderful Jack Prelutsky! 
• Record a video of yourself reading a poem, then share it on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, or another social media platform you use. Kids, get your grown-up’s permission! 
• Need some tips for reading poetry aloud? Check out these tips from the amazing Michael Rosen! 
• Email a poem to your friends, family, neighbors, or local government leaders.
• Schedule a video chat and read a poem to your loved ones.
• Read a poem out loud from your porch, window, backyard or outdoor space. 
• Read a poem to a stuffed animal, pet, or to yourself in the mirror! 
• Poetry is for all ages! Share Mother Goose rhymes with a baby or toddler! 
• Watch a poem! Here are a few of our favorite poetry videos:
   
  • Wayne the Stegosaurus by Kenn Nesbitt
  • Multitudes by Walt Whitman
  • Poorly Dressed by Bruce Lansky
  • Monsters by Dorothea Lasky
  • To Catch a Fish by Eloise Greenfield
  • We Real Cool by Gwendolyn Brooks (perfect for tweens & teens)
     

Have fun and be sure to share your favorite poem in the comments below!