Salinas Youth Poet Laureate 2022

We are looking for the next Salinas Youth Poet Laureate!

Throughout the month of April, Salinas Public Library will accept submissions from young poets, ages 13-19. Share your best and most inspiring original poems for a chance to represent Salinas as the Youth Poet Laureate. One person will be selected for the title of Salinas Youth Poet Laureate 2022-23, and they will receive a prize. A Vice Laureate will also be determined.

Open to all Salinas youth ages 13-19
Original poems in all styles and themes are welcome
Winner will receive a cash scholarship and plaque
Deadline is April 30, 2022

To complete your online application and submit your text and video, go to: Submission Form

Please make sure you read all of the information below before submitting.

How do I apply?

When are applications open?
Friday, March 15, 2024 thru Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

Where is the application found?
Submission Form

What needs to be included in my application?
Your submitted application must include the following:
- Two original poems  showing excellence in  content,  craft,  and  voice, totaling no more than 10 pages typed. Please be sure your written work is spell-checked.
- One (1) audio OR video of you reciting the poem that is no more than 4:59 minutes.
- Name and contact information for your Parent/Guardian if you are under the age of 18 by May 1, 2024.
-  Artist statement: Introduce yourself by telling us who you are and what poetry means to you. (250 words max)

How do I submit my poem?
Complete the application on the submission form and submit two files along with the application:
A) One text document with your original typed poem or poems in .txt, .doc, .docx, or PDF format, maximum of 2 poems, comprised of no more than 10 pages total.
B) One video file in which you recite your own poem. Supported video files are .mp4, .mov, or .avi. You can also provide a link to a publicly available video on YouTube.

Do I have to finish my entire application in one sitting?
You must complete all the required questions at one time and submit. There is no way to save your work. We recommend that you look at the questions on the application and then prepare and proofread your responses. You can then copy and paste your responses into the online application and have your poem files ready for uploading.

I don’t have Internet access. How do I apply?
You can visit your local library and use the wireless Internet there to submit your online application. We also offer computer workstations at all of our branches that have Internet access.

Can I go back to change something in my application?
You will not be able to change or update your poem or poems (no more than two) once your application has been submitted. If a minor error was made on your application as it relates to your name and contact information, you can contact us at poetry [at] ci.salinas.ca.us to make the correction.

Who can I contact if I’m having technical trouble with my application?
Email us at poetry [at] ci.salinas.ca.us (subject: Salinas%20Youth%20Poet%20Question) , or call the Salinas Public Library at (831) 758-7456.

What does it mean to be Youth Poet Laureate?

The Salinas Youth Poet Laureate and the Finalists may be invited to host a poetry reading at the Salinas Public Library, or at other City of Salinas events throughout the year. The Laureate may also be asked to share their experiences with the press and through blogs, videos and social media. There are no specific events planned at this time.

The Salinas Youth Poet Laureate may also represent Salinas and its youth at public and private events, and will be a model for other youth for a period of up to two years.

What is the judging process?

There will be judges representing a diverse group of experts from literacy, arts and educational organizations as well as local artists and activists who will help select the winning laureate.

The  2024 Youth Poet Laureate will be the poet who scores the highest total number of points. The Vice Laureate will have the 2nd  highest score. Scores will be based on the following criteria:

Content : The poet’s ability to examine their personal truths and make connections to the larger community.
Craft: The poet’s command of poetic craft and purposeful breaks with convention.
Voice: The poet's ability to write both honestly and authentically.
Performance: How the poet breathes life into their poem.
Leadership: The poet’s potential for leading, inspiring, mentoring and representing the City of Salinas and its youth.

When will the winner be announced?

The new Youth Poet Laureate will be notified by June 2024.

If I win, how will I receive the prize?

An award plaque and a scholarship cash prize in the form of a check will be issued to you or one of your parents or legal guardians.

Who can I contact with questions?

If you have questions, please email poetry [at] ci.salinas.ca.us , or call the Salinas Public Library at (831) 758-7456.