The University of Arizona's Poetry Center in the Helen S. Schaefer Building, was opened to the public as well as writers, faculty and students in October 2007.
This building creates a landmark facility where the mission of providing an outstanding research collection, quite possibly the most outstanding collection of contemporary poetry in America, and meeting place for writers and readers of poetry can be fulfilled.
Founder Ruth Stephan's concept of accessibility and the connection between reader and poetry are overarching and drove the design for the building. Outdoor gathering and comfortable places of solitude and contemplation are an integral part of this project.
The program includes stacks, controlled rare book collection, archives, administration, space for the Humanities seminar program and areas for discourse in both small and large groups.
Integrated housing, one of the truly unique aspect of the center, is provided to honor and support the tradition of interaction among established poets and students as well as total immersion for those just emerging.