Key West Literary Seminar welcomes readers and writers to this storied island city. From our headquarters at the Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden, we produce programs including the annual Seminar. Founded in 1983, our flagship event explores a unique theme each January, where readers from around the world enjoy presentations by the best writers of our time. In our Writers’ Workshops, small groups meet with esteemed faculty to share their work and explore the craft of writing.

As we continue Key West’s tradition of literary excellence, Young Writers initiatives bring this legacy into classrooms and build writing skills through hands-on experiences. Our Scholarship Program celebrates outstanding Emerging Writers and recognizes teachers and librarians from around the country. Writers in Residence create compelling new work at our Love Lane campus. 

Our year-round Literary Walking Tour brings Key West’s literary history to the surface. Our Audio Archive has exclusive recordings by more than 600 authors, and our online journal Littoral includes unique resources that document Key West’s rich literary history.

An island of less than five square miles, Key West has one of the most intriguing cultural heritages of any place in America. We are proud to carry on the life of letters in this island city.