Programs

For 42 years, the Tennessee Valley region has been enriched by an array of literary activities and programs sponsored by HLA.

American Shakespeare Center on Tour
Each year the public enjoys energetic, interpretative presentations of Shakespearean plays thanks to HLA sponsorship. The critically acclaimed comes to Huntsville to perform. Ticket sell-outs are common as audiences from the entire Tennessee Valley flock to this annual event. Free pre-show lectures by UAH faculty members enhance enjoyment of the plays. Read More & See 2009 dates.

POEM Literary Magazine
Only the best poems from thousands of national and international submissions are selected for publication in POEM. Published and distributed by HLA twice each year to members and major libraries, this literary journal is recognized as one of the finest poetry magazines in the United States. POEM has been published continuously since 1967, and this year we will publish our 100th and 101st issues. Note: HLA, a volunteer organization, publishes only POEM. HLA is not a commercial publishing organization. Read More.

Young Writers Contest
The annual HLA-sponsored Young Writers Contest, open to all students in public and private schools in Madison County, encourages literary creativity among elementary, middle and high school youth. Contest winners in each age group are recognized with cash awards and publication of their poems and short stories. The contest typically opens the first week in February, with final submissions due mid-March.

The Literary Discussion Group
Held at the homes of HLA members, monthly gatherings offer stimulating, in-depth discussions of classics and contemporary literature. Works for discussion are selected one year in advance by Discussion Group members.

Writing Groups and Workshops
Both fiction and poetry writing meetings and workshops offer aspiring and published writers an opportunity to hone their skills with guidance from notable authors. Works of these groups are presented at special events open to the membership and guests in the spring.

HLA Wine and Cheese Party
This annual event offers Tennessee Valley residents an opportunity to visit one of Huntsville's most stunning homes, enjoy lively conversation with literature enthusiasts, and select refreshments from an assortment of wines and cheeses. It also serves as a pleasurable occasion to join or renew membership in the HLA organization.

Book Blab
Gathering informally at members' homes, book loving HLA members casually discuss titles and authors they are reading. Recommended books are then listed in the HLA newsletter. Meetings are held monthly.

Sunday Salons
HLA members and guests gather to enjoy readings by selected authors and poets. Meetings are typically held at members' homes on Sunday afternoons.