For one weekend only, a poetry library on wheels is stopping in Dundee

A bus filled with poetry might not be something you expect to find in Dundee city centre.

Yet on 20 and 21 June, visitors heading to The McManus will discover exactly that as the Mobile National Poetry Library rolls into the city as part of Dundee Book Festival 2026.

The unique travelling library forms part of A Poet in Every Port, a nationwide initiative from Southbank Centre that celebrates coastal communities, local voices and the power of language.

For one weekend only, Dundee becomes part of a UK-wide cultural journey that aims to bring poetry out of traditional venues and into everyday public spaces.

Bringing a national project to Dundee

A Poet in Every Port forms part of Southbank Centre’s 75th anniversary celebrations and has been developed in partnership with Leisure & Culture Dundee.

The project explores how poetry can connect communities through place, identity and shared experiences, while recognising the unique stories that make each location distinctive.

For Dundee, that means local voices, local perspectives and local creativity sit firmly at the centre of the programme.

More than just a library

While the Mobile National Poetry Library may be the centrepiece attraction, the weekend offers far more than shelves filled with books.

Visitors can browse a specially curated collection of contemporary poetry, listen to live readings, take part in creative workshops and even contribute writing inspired by Dundee itself.

The programme has been designed to encourage participation rather than observation, giving people opportunities to engage with poetry in whatever way feels comfortable to them.

Dundee talent takes centre stage

A key part of the programme is the involvement of Dundee poet Cat MacLeod.

As a member of Southbank Centre’s New Poets Collective, MacLeod’s work explores themes including ecology, place and lived experience, helping to connect the national project with local perspectives.

Her involvement ensures Dundee’s creative voice remains at the heart of the weekend.

Something for every age group

The programme also includes sessions tailored to different audiences.

Nature lovers can take part in Liken Lichen, a workshop combining poetry, ecology and local history.

The Un-Hushed spoken word event will showcase LGBTQ+ voices through performance and storytelling.

Families with younger children can enjoy Bookbug x Rug Rhymes, introducing songs, stories and language through playful interactive sessions.

You don’t need to be a poet

Perhaps the most important thing organisers want people to know is that no prior knowledge is required.

You do not need to write poetry, study poetry or even particularly enjoy poetry to take part.

Visitors can spend five minutes browsing a book, listen to a reading, join a workshop or simply experience something different while exploring Dundee city centre.

The event has been designed to be welcoming, informal and accessible to everyone.

A rare visit to Dundee

The Mobile National Poetry Library only visits a limited number of locations, making its arrival in Dundee a rare opportunity.

For one weekend, one of the UK’s most unique literary experiences will be parked right in the heart of the city, offering a chance to discover poetry in a way that feels fresh, relaxed and surprisingly approachable.

Whether you’re a lifelong reader or simply passing through, it is worth stopping by.