The North Carolina Literary Review (NCLR) publishes poetry, fiction, and nonfiction by North Carolina writers, as well as interviews, articles, and essays about the state's authors, literary history, and writing culture. A cross between a scholarly journal and a literary magazine, NCLR has won numerous awards and citations.

The NCLR is produced at East Carolina University. Started in 1991, it was inspired by the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association to be a companion to the North Carolina Historical Review, with a mission to promote and support writers who are a part of the state's rich literary tradition. NCLR not only introduces new and emerging writers, but also celebrates forgotten authors who have influenced the culture and history of the Old North State.

The print issue is published in the summer. It is available via subscription and in independent bookstores across the state. Since 2012, a separate, open access digital issue (NCLR Online) is published in the winter. The creative writing in both issues is complemented with fine art by North Carolina artists.