The Seattle Public Library will offer open mics, writers groups and poetry readings at several locations throughout the city in January.

SCHEDULE

Seattle Writes: Writing Circle with Hugo House6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the West Seattle Branch, 2306 42nd Ave. S.W., 206-684-7444. A monthly, drop-in writing group hosted by author Jeanine Walker. It features writing exercises, motivation, and ways to connect with other writers.

It's About Time Writers' Reading Series 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 at the Ballard Branch, 5614 22nd Ave. N.W., 206-684-4089. A monthly series featuring author readings and open mics. The 363rd meeting features readings from Sheila Bender, Stacey Levine, Kilam Tel Aviv and Matilda Sycamore.

Writers Read 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 at the Columbia Branch, 4721 Rainier Ave. S., 206-386-1908. A monthly open mic with selected author readings on the second Sunday of each month, presented in partnership with African-American Writers' Alliance.

Seattle Writes: Writing Circle with Hugo House 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13 at the Columbia Branch, 4721 Rainier Ave. S., 206-386-1908. A monthly, drop-in writing group hosted by author Brett Hamil. It features writing exercises, motivation, and ways to connect with other writers.

Seattle Writes: Writing Circle with Hugo House - 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21 at the Fremont Branch, 731 N. 35th St., 206-684-4084. A monthly, drop-in writing group hosted by author Alma García. It features writing exercises, motivation, and ways to connect with other writers.

Poetry Potluck - 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30 at the Ballard Branch, 5614 22nd Ave. N.W., 206-684-4089. An informal monthly gathering to listen to and read poetry aloud. Bring a few favorite poems, whether classics or new discoveries, and share them around the table. This is a feast of poetry. (Not a food event.)

MORE INFORMATION

The Library believes that the power of knowledge improves people's lives. We promote literacy and a love of reading as we bring people, information and ideas together to enrich lives and build community.