The mission of the International Poetry Forum is to demonstrate the relevance and centrality of poetry to the general public through the oral presentation of poetry. Each program works to develop a broader audience base and to provide the public access to the arts through poetry.

The Poets-in-Public series features internationally recognized poets reading their works in public. Poems are also presented and interpreted by actors, actresses, and musicians.

The Poets-in-Person is the Forum’s educational outreach program whose purpose is to introduce and develop an appreciation of poetry in elementary, junior and senior high school students.