Poet laureate to visit library

Missouri's first poet laureate, Walter Bargen, will return this evening to Callaway County Public Library.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., he'll introduce selections from his new book "Until Next Time," as well as earlier poems.

Bargen is a prolific poet, having published 23 volumes of poetry over the years. CCPL has high praise for his latest, describing it as a collection of "compelling, readable and relatable poems" that "holds the reader transfixed and transformed at the highest level of consciousness."

Sherry McBride-Brown, adult services librarian, said she recently began reading "Until Next Time" and is enjoying it so far.

"(Bargen) is a nice person and he puts a lot of meaning into his work," she said. "Poetry is clearly a calling for him."

Copies of his books will be available for purchase and signing after the reading.

"We're looking forward to it," McBride-Brown said. "It'll be another relaxing evening of appreciating poetry. It's nice to bring the arts into the library."

During his last visit this time last year, Bargen talked about and read passages from his book "My Other Mother's Red Mercedes."

Bargen served as Missouri's poet laureate 2008-10, after the position was established by former Gov. Matt Blunt. Missouri's poets laureate must be published poets, residing in Missouri and active in the poetry community.

Missouri poet laureate duties include promoting poetry throughout Missouri and penning an original poem in honor of the state. Current poet laureate Karen Craigo, of Springfield, succeeded Aliki Barnstone as poet laureate in November. Her term will last until 2021.