2024 Poet Laureate application now open! 
The Poet Laureate position is open for the May 2024 - June 2026 service period.
The application period will begin March 1st – May 15th . Applications
available at Calaveras County branch libraries and on Friends of the Calaveras County
Library Facebook page.
A selection will be made for the 2024-2026 Laureate position and announced the end of May
2024.

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About the position:

The selection and announcement of the Calaveras County Poet Laureate is a process
administered by the non-profit Friends of the Calaveras County Library.
The title of Poet Laureate is a time-honored tradition.  In 1668, England officially
established the post as a royal office. In the 19th century some local Poet Laureates were
recognized in their communities. In 1937 the U.S. created the position of National Poet
Laureate. The position of California Poet Laureate was established as a part of the California
Government Code in 2001 through AB 113.
The position of Calaveras County Poet Laureate, as established by Friends of the Calaveras
County Library, will honor local outstanding poets, integrate poetry into the community,
enrich the education of our young people, and enhance the County’s position as a cultural
center.
Appointments will be for two-year terms. The honorary position is without salary although
an annual stipend will be provided. Applications will be accepted now through March 15th .
The poet must reside in Calaveras County.
Each application must contain:
1. Cover letter from the applicant.
2. Name and resume of the applicant with contact information, a website address (if
applicable) and a statement of interest by the poet.
3. Three to six poems by the poet.
The Poet Laureate’s named duties over the period of his/her appointment include:
1. Presentations of his/her poetry at a Calaveras County Board of Supervisors meeting.
2. Presentations at other appropriate public events, at least once each quarter for
his/her term.
3. Presentations at branch libraries in the county.
4. Advocacy of poetry in the community, including, but not limited to, bringing poetry
to school children, projects or programs that promote the appreciation of poetry, or
poetry workshops with underserved populations in the community.