The Loft hosts a wide variety of literary readings and performances featuring visiting, nationally acclaimed authors along with both accomplished and emerging local writers. A broad range of genres, forms, ethnicities, and geographic groups are represented. Frequently, a reception follows the readings. Readings include popular series such as Talking Volumes, the Loft Mentor Series, and the McKnight Artist Fellowships for Writers. Check the monthly Loft Calendar for a schedule of upcoming events

Talking Volumes, Minnesota's nationally acclaimed regional book club, spotlights current books and their authors in Star Tribune articles, author appearances at Saint Paul's Fitzgerald Theater, and Minnesota Public Radio broadcasts. Talking Volumes is a partnership of Minnesota Public Radio and the Star Tribune in collaboration with the Loft Literary Center. 

The Loft Mentor Series in Poetry and Creative Prose presents six readings a year. Each reading presents one of the six well-known mentor authors featured in the program along with two emerging writer/winners of the series competition.

McKnight Artist Fellowships for Writers readings feature the judges and winners of the Fellowships. These readings are normally held in September, November and April.

Publication Readings are scheduled regularly in the Target Performance Hall and at Magers & Quinn Booksellers, in Minneapolis. These are usually cosponsored by the publishers with books available for purchase. A book signing and reception often follows. Many genres and special interest are represented. Publication readings are free.

 Local Motion is a reading series featuring prominent area writers who also teach at the Loft. These readings are free.

Student Readings feature Loft students reading from their work each term. They have the opportunity to share their writing with invited guests, other students, teaching artists, and the general public. Students can sign up in the Resource Library to read during the current term. These readings are free.