Founded in 1920 with its hub in Charleston, The Poetry Society of South Carolina (PSSC) is the oldest state poetry society in the country. The Society exists to support the reading, writing, study, and enjoyment of poetry and the enrichment that poetry can bring. Besides the free monthly programs, we also provide workshops, seminars, contests, open mics, outdoor events, and much more throughout the state.  

If you are not already a member, we invite you to become one. Members receive a copy of the Yearbook (either digital or printed), notices of monthly meetings and other literary events, free entry into our fall and spring poetry competitions, and the opportunity to belong to a supportive statewide community of poets and friends of poetry. The Society’s membership year, much like a school year, runs from July 1 to June 30. We encourage new and returning members to pay their dues during the summer in anticipation of supporting our mission during the full calendar year.

To join, please send a check payable to The Poetry Society of South Carolina to: PSSC, P.O. Box 1090, Charleston, SC 29402. Payment may be made through PayPal via the PSSC website, www.PoetrySocietySC.org. We cannot carry out our mission without your continued support.

PLEASE NOTE: It has been eight years since our dues were increased. After operating under deficits for many years and considering all other options, the board voted to increase dues for the 2023-2024 calendar year. For those who wish to continue paying at the old dues rates, we offer basic memberships at the individual and student levels. These members will receive a link to an online version of the Yearbook at the end of the season. Standard membership levels will receive a printed Yearbook.