The Florida Public Library will host a Poetry Reading on Saturday, October 5, at 1 p.m. The event will take place at the Village of Florida Seward Senior Center, located next to the library at 4 Cohen Circle. This reading aims to raise funds for Robert Milby, the longtime host of FPL’s Poetry Café series, to assist with his medical expenses.
Adults and teens aged 16 and up are encouraged to attend. Participants will have the opportunity to read Milby’s poetry and share their favorite poems. Copies of Milby’s works will be available for reading and purchase at the event.
Robert Milby has lived in Florida for many years and is known for his numerous poetry collections. His poems often focus on local landscapes, flora, fauna, and the region’s rich but forgotten history. He served as the Orange County Poet Laureate from 2017 to 2019 and has organized many poetry events throughout the Hudson Valley. Milby has also supported aspiring writers, providing them opportunities to debut at his events.
In 2006, Milby and former Director Madelyn Folino established the popular schedule of four poetry cafés each year for the Florida Public Library. Folino will host the benefit reading.
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