Poetry Slam Pics

On Wednesday, March 2nd, Blazer Library had the honor of hosting some of KSU's finest student writers at its first ever Open Mic Night and Poetry Slam. The Extended Hours Study Room was packed to capacity and the talent flowed freely as we participated in the Kentucky Literacy Celebration, a collaboration between education/literacy institutions and Kentucky First Lady Jane Beshear. The energy was palpable as we celebrated literacy through spoken word!

This poet spoke of the pains and joy of young love.

This young lady eloquently described how we can better understand ourselves as well as celebrate our history, while overcoming its limitations, through reading.


Patrick shared his thoughts on everything from God to sex and in the end tied for second place with Chris, earning $20 for his efforts.

Two of the judges are shown here - new Interlibrary Loan Librarian Raphael Jackson and Library Director Sheila Stuckey

Miesha won first place - an honor worth $50 - for her wry lightening-fast reflections on the intersections between love and pop culture. She had the audience laughing and cheering more than once as they demanded more of her.

Chris was the first poet to speak, and like Miesha, the crowd called him back to the microphone for more. He tied for second place with Patrick and offered a polished and energetic performance that reflected profoundly on his life's path thus far.

All in all, the event was a rousing success and Blazer Library considers itself lucky to have played a part in the first Kentucky Literacy Celebration. We can't wait to see next year's talent!