The Loft Literary Center
Featured Offerings
The Fire is Here: University of Minnesota x the Loft Short-Story Summit | Sep 30
Join us for an engaging evening dedicated to the mechanics and magic of the short story. Join award-winning authors Aamina Ahmad, Megan Giddings, and Julie Schumacher as they discuss the inspiration, challenges, and artistry behind crafting short stories.
The Fire is Here: Beginning Middle End with Valeria Luiselli
Join us as award-winning author and former McKnight Award Judge Valeria Luiselli (Lost Children Archive, The Story of My Teeth) joins Executive & Artistic Director Arleta Little to celebrate her new book, Beginning Middle End.
Patricia Smith Live: Reading & Conversation in Support of the Loft
Join National Book Award winning poet Patricia Smith for an intimate evening of poetry and conversation in support of the Loft on Saturday, November 7, at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in Saint Paul.
Not Sure Where to Start? Try a Loft Pathway
Choose Your Path
The Loft’s five pathways help readers and writers find the right offerings based on their goals—whether you're just beginning, looking to spark creativity, connect with others, dive deep into stories and craft, or refine works-in-progress. Choose the path that fits where you are (or want to be) on your literary journey.
Discover & Explore
Perfect for beginners or the creatively curious, this pathway offers a welcoming space to build confidence, uncover new interests, and connect with other curious readers and writers.
Gather & Socialize
Writing and reading don't have to be solitary—this pathway centers connection, conversation, and community. Join fellow writers and readers for casual meetups, celebrations, and shared creative energy.
Generate & Create
This pathway focuses on sparking imagination and creative momentum. Through prompts, exercises, and playful exploration, you'll find fresh ways to get writing and keep going.
Expand & Discuss
For readers and writers who love digging in, this pathway offers rich conversations and craft-focused discussions centered around books and big ideas. Grow, question, and engage with others who love to think critically about stories and storytelling.
Feedback & Polish
This pathway is for writers with works in progress who are ready to refine and elevate their craft. Get targeted feedback from peers and teaching artist and develop strategies for revision and next steps toward publication.
Upcoming Loft Events
Learn More About Loft Events
The Loft hosts numerous events throughout the year. Take a look at our upcoming offerings and plan your next visit.
Support the Loft
Become a Friend
Your Support Unleashes the Power of the Word
At the Loft, we envision a world where the power of the word liberates minds, deepens relationships, and inspires movements for people and planet. Your gift sustains our community of writers and readers whose stories are vital to our shared humanity and our freedom.
