Poet William Stafford once said “You don't need many words if you already know what you're talking about.”

Stafford, whose poetry continues to be widely read and highly regarded for its simplicity and beauty, was Oregon’s Poet Laureate from 1974-1989. The Deschutes Public Library will honor the words and work of William Stafford during the month of January as part of the Oregon Reads 2014 centennial celebration. The statewide kick-off event is planned for January 11 at 2:00 at the Downtown Bend Library and will include two of Stafford’s children, Kim and Kit Stafford, and close family friend and local author, Jarold Ramsey.

“Deschutes Public Library is pleased to join libraries from around the state to celebrate Oregon’s most famous poet with a month of programming that includes art and writing workshops, musical performances, film screenings and author presentations,” said Library Director Todd Dunkelberg.

All events are free and open to the public. Registration may be required.

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The Archivist
Paul Merchant, Stafford’s long-time archivist, on working with the poet.


Oregon Reads 2014 Kick-off: William Stafford Centennial Celebration
Stafford children, Kit and Kim Stafford, kick off the yearlong celebration of William Stafford with author Jarold Ramsey. Sisters’ Americana Project students perform music inspired by Stafford’s poetry.


Second Sunday with Jarold Ramsey & Kim Stafford
Stafford’s friend and son discuss the poet’s work and their own writing.


Pacifism and Poetic Truth-telling in the United States
Annemarie Hamlin literature and writing teacher at COCC discusses William Stafford’s poetry of protest.


Every War Has Two Losers
Screen this award-winning film based on Stafford’s journals.


Write Now! with John Martin
Learn more about Stafford and gain inspiration from his style.


Words to Image
Workshop participants will use a variety of mediums to create art inspired by the poetry of William Stafford. The workshop is open to all levels of artists and poets who want to explore the power of coupling word and image. Workshop is limited to 15 participants. Registration required - register at the link below.


Students of the Sisters Americana Project Perform
As a class project Americana Students were tasked with writing music inspired by the poetry of William Stafford. This performance is the result of their efforts.



For more information about other celebrations across the state, please visit the Oregon Reads 2014 website at www.oregonreads2014.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz at 312-1032.