"Wintersong: A Midcoast Gathering of Voices" will take place Tuesday, Jan. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Porter Hall at Skidompha Library, Main St., Damariscotta with a snow date of Tuesday, Jan. 20. The event is free and open to the public. Please enter via the Elm Street side (rear entrance) of the library, as the event will be held after regular hours.

The Midcoast Poetry Calendar and Publishing is delighted to announce "Wintersong," a community poetry reading celebrating "Midcoast Poetry Journal Volumes 1 and 2" and the bright, brave literary life of the region. The evening will feature readings by poets published in the journal, plus an open mic where attendees are warmly invited to share either a poem they wrote or a poem they love.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a first-time reader, come gather in the dark of January and make a little weather of your own: words, laughter, and a room full of listening (bring your boots, your neighbor, and your most radiant inside voice).

Emcee for the evening will be local poet Eleanor Cade Busby, who welcomes any inquiries and loves a good question almost as much as a good line break. All are welcome to share during open mic, with a usual limit of three pieces per poet (and, as always in a good poetry room, that limit is flexible). Copies of "Midcoast Poetry Journal Volumes 1 and 2" will be available for purchase, and refreshments will be served in the lobby, a touch of warmth for hands, hearts, and pages.

“Poetry thrives when voices meet in real time,” said organizers. “Midcoast Maine has an extraordinary community of writers, and we wanted to create a warm, welcoming space where everyone, poets and listeners alike, can gather.”

To join the story: For submission guidelines, reading schedules, or to get involved, email info@MidcoastPoetryCalendar.com. This inbox is monitored daily, so expect a prompt and friendly reply.  For more information, please contact: eleanorcadebusby@hotmail.com