Just Buffalo Literary Center’s mission is to create and strengthen communities through the literary arts. And for 50 years, we have brought the world’s greatest writers to Buffalo, hosted poetry events and readings, and supported the development of young writers.
Just Buffalo Literary Center has accomplished so much for the local reading and writing community, including:
- Brought the world’s greatest writers to Buffalo, most recently with our acclaimed BABEL series
- Supported the development of writers—young and old—through our creative writing programs at the Just Buffalo Writing Center
- Fostered a vibrant cultural scene, becoming an important regional asset and one of the nation’s top literary centers
Our History
You could say that Just Buffalo began with a poem… Over the last 50 years, Just Buffalo has hosted, organized or co-sponsored more than 2,000 events, bringing the world’s greatest writers to Western New York.
Our Staff & Board of Directors
Meet the people behind Just Buffalo—a group of individuals with the passion, dedication, and commitment that make this organization strong.
Our Teaching Artists
Just Buffalo’s teaching artists represent the best of Western New York’s literary presence, plus other disciplines from visual art and photography to performance art and filmmaking—creating a unique environment that fosters the artistic community and helps grow the next generation of local artists.
Event Space Rental
Just Buffalo Literary Center is located in the heart of downtown Buffalo along the literary corridor. Our beautifully renovated space is available for private rental to host writing workshops, author events, poetry readings, professional development retreats, book launches, and more.
The Latest Just Buffalo News
Stay up-to-date on the latest news about all things Just Buffalo.
PARDON MY HEART by Marcus Jackson
Pardon my heart if it ruins your party.
It’s a large, American heart and has had
a good deal to drink.
Read "Pardon My Heart" by Marcus JacksonIt’s a large, American heart and has had
a good deal to drink.
What Does “Blue” Mean to You? Share Your Story.
Inspired by Imani Perry’s moving work, Just Buffalo invites you to pause and reflect on your own “blue story.”
In the world of literature, art, and life, blue is never just a color. It is a mood, a melody, a memory, and a landscape. It represents our struggles and the heights of our beauty. As part of our Civil Writes Project, we are seeking meditations on the many shades of this experience.
Excerpt from “…Again” by Mark Nowak
Owls out in the woods behind Office Depot. The odds have
been against us from the onset. Obedience, obesity, alcohol, opi-
oids. Owls out behind Ollie's Bargain Outlet, too. Owls in the old
Read an excerpt from "…Again" by Mark Nowakbeen against us from the onset. Obedience, obesity, alcohol, opi-
oids. Owls out behind Ollie's Bargain Outlet, too. Owls in the old