Loft, Inc.

Welcome to the Loft!
The Loft advances the artistic development of writers, foster a thriving literary community, and inspire a passion for literature. 

In 1974, a small group of writers gathered in the loft above a Minneapolis bookstore and created the foundation for a community of readers and writers. 

Over the years, we have grown to become one of the nation’s leading independent literary centers. Annually, the Loft offers hundreds of classes, awards and grants for writers, readings and events, major festivals and conferences, and other resources for readers and writers. 

Dig in with Us! Narrative Power
Toni Cade Bambara said, "The job of the writer is to make the revolution irresistible." Through August 2023, the Loft will explore how writers exercise narrative power to lead and influence movements for social change.

Participants in our theme will exercise the power of the word in challenging the status quo, learn how to craft compelling change narratives, explore and articulate alternative visions of the future, celebrate the lives and accomplishments of those from historically marginalized communities with power and complexity, and cultivate joy, healing, wisdom, and compassion necessary for sustained struggle and peace. 

Our hope is to build skills and connections for writers and readers to tell and share more stories about power, problems, and possibilities in realms that are personal, public, and planetary. Join us on the journey!

Save the Date! Wordplay 2023
On July 8, join us for Minnesota's largest celebration of readers, writers, and great books. The Loft's Wordplay is a family-friendly event for all ages, engaging readers and writers around provocative conversations on today's most important topics. Past authors include Stephen King, Amy Tan, Dean Koontz, Chelsea Clinton, Kazuo Ishiguro, Yaa Gyasi, Tommy Orange,Cheryl Strayed, Hanif Abdurraqib, Kate DiCamillo, and more!

Give Today!
Whatever amount you choose to give, a donation to The Loft makes YOU a Loft member! Receive stellar member benefits, including discounts on Loft programming,  classes, early access to our Wordplay book festival and Wordsmith conference for writers, and more, all while supporting our thriving literary community.

Whether it's your first time, or you've given for years, your membership matters, and we're honored to earn your support. 

Thanks for giving to the max for the Loft!