Immerse yourself in arts, literacy and community at Tulsa City-County Library’s VERSES

Tulsa City-County Library (TCCL) invites the community to enjoy an evening of poetry, spoken word, storytelling and art at the annual fundraiser benefiting TCCL’s Ruth G. Hardman Adult Literacy Service on Saturday, Sept. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Central Library, Fifth Street and Denver Avenue. This year, VERSES attendees can participate in a silent auction with literacy-themed prizes.

VERSES focuses on immersive and collaborative art experiences, poetry readings, spoken word performances and live art demonstrations. The goal of the event is to raise awareness of the need for adult literacy services, celebrate Tulsa’s diverse creative voices, and build connections between artists and the community.

Previous VERSES participating artists include Quinn Carver Johnson, Words of the People and Heller Theatre Company. Interactive art experiences in 2025 included a literary quilt, paper weaving, a live painting demonstration, collage making and letter writing. This year’s participating artists will be announced in the weeks leading up to the event.