In October 2008, The Library of America published the first authoritative edition of America's preeminent living poet with JOHN ASHBERY: COLLECTED POEMS 1956-1987. This landmark volume contains more than 100 pages of rare and previously uncollected material from the first half of Ashbery's career; it's an extraordinary treasure trove for poetry lovers and a newsworthy publishing event. He becomes only the fourth living writer-and the first living poet-to have his works collected by the nonprofit publisher specializing in American literature.