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Ashland Poetry Press

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About the press

Ashland Poetry Press, affiliated with Ashland University, has been a dedicated publisher of poetry since its founding in 1969. The press emerged from a commitment to fostering literary excellence and has consistently championed both emerging and established voices. Its core mission is to publish poetry collections and broadsides that demonstrate formal skill, emotional depth, and intellectual rigor, often with a focus on work that balances tradition with innovation. Over the decades, it has maintained a reputation for editorial integrity and a genuine investment in the poets it publishes, prioritizing craft over commercial trends.

Publishing focus

The mission of the Ashland Poetry Press is to publish poets at any stages of their careers (from poets on their first books to established and distinguished poets) through our book contest and broadside prize. We also help mature poets define the best accomplishments of their writing careers through the publication of volumes of selected works.

PoetryPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Richard Jackson, Bruce Bond, Valerie Perreault, David Mills, Christine Gelineau, Mark Irwin, Kathryn Winograd, Philip Brady, Nicholas Samaras, Michael Miller, Catherine Staples, Robin Davidson, Laura Van Prooyen

Calls & opportunities

5 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-11-02

2026 Ashland Poetry Broadside Contest

OpenDeadline · 2026-11-02

2026 Ashland Poetry Broadside Contest

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJan 1 to May 1
Reading feeYes
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Poets should approach Ashland Poetry Press with a polished, cohesive manuscript that demonstrates mastery of language and a clear poetic vision. The press values work that is emotionally resonant and technically proficient, so avoid overly fragmented or purely conceptual pieces. For contests like the Broadside Contest, adhere strictly to guidelines and submit early. It is advisable to read several titles from the press's catalog to understand its aesthetic preferences. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify promptly if accepted elsewhere. A cover letter that succinctly highlights previous publications and the manuscript's thematic core can be helpful, but the work itself is paramount.

Manuscripts are considered through the Richard Snyder Memorial Book Prize. See our website for submission guidelines. We have also recently opened a fall poetry broadside contest, and we will soon be expanding into new publication projects as well.

Read official guidelines