Write a query letter for your book of poems, which is the best way to contact literary agents and publishers who accept unsolicited submissions. Write the query as if it's a cover letter. Introduce your book of poems, including the title and genre, in the first paragraph. The second paragraph should be a more detailed description of the poems, perhaps with a comparison to other published poetry. The third paragraph is a short bio of you as a poet and writer, including any other published works or awards.
Use Agent Query, Query Tracker or Publisher's Marketplace to find a literary agent that represents poetry. While a few traditional publishers welcome queries from unpublished writers, most are only open to submissions from literary agents. Follow each agency's guidelines on submitting a query for your book and wait for a response from the agent before making further contact. Have your poems prepared in one word document, complete with title page, if an agent requests to read your book.
If you are one of the lucky ones to receive an agency contract, read it carefully before signing it. After signing with an agency, she'll research the best potential editors and publishing houses for your work and will guide you through the publication process if you receive an offer.
Create a word document with a title page, dedication page, table of contents and all of your poems in the order you choose. Proofread your book, keeping in mind that poets that self-publish often do not work with an editor.
Research self-publishing websites like InstantPublisher.com, ArtBookbindery.com and Lulu.com to compare pricing and template options, and register with the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Log on with your registration information and choose "Start a New Project." Decide whether you want a printed book (paperback or hard cover), an e-book or both.
Open your word document from Step 1 and fill out the form on the website step by step. Enter the title, your name, and a summary or blurb of your book of poems. Browse through the website's template options and choose the one that best matches the contents of your book, which will largely depend on the length and style of your poems. Some websites may also offer customized graphics and a cover design. If they don't offer this option, check hireanillustrator.com for artists.
Enter your table of contents and poems into the form and click "Publish" after proofreading one last time. Click "Order" to order one printed book to proofread again. Once you have checked the published book for errors, feel free to order more copies from the website.