Library Announces Call For Norwalk Poet Laureate

NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Public Library, in partnership with the Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission and Norwalk Business Development and Tourism, is seeking applications for the honorary position of Norwalk Poet Laureate.

The deadline to submit applications for the 2024-2026 term is Aug. 2, 2024 at 5 p.m.

According to a news release provided by the library, the role of the Norwalk Poet Laureate is to promote awareness of and appreciation for literary arts and humanities within the city of Norwalk.

As both a Norwalk resident and distinguished poet, the Norwalk Poet Laureate represents and celebrates the diversity and history of Norwalk by demonstrating a commitment to the many cultural and artistic achievements of the city, and by celebrating the literature of Norwalk’s diverse cultures, ages, orientations, urban and suburban areas through the advancement of literacy and the art of poetry, according to the library.

During the two-year term, the poet laureate will act as an advocate for poetry and contribute literary offerings to the city of Norwalk through public readings, creating poetry programs at Norwalk Public Library and participation in civic events at public, educational, private, and electronic venues, according to the library.

The individual selected will serve a two-year term commencing Sept. 2, 2024, for which they will receive a $1,000 honorarium to facilitate all civic and official work performed or produced in the position.

"Norwalk Public Library is thrilled to be a partner in encouraging creative expression and facilitate community connection through interactive programming that makes poetry and literary arts more accessible to the community," Norwalk Public Library Director Sherelle Harris said in a news release.

Laureates Emeriti include:

• Bill Hayden (2020-2023)
• Laurel Peterson (2016-2019)

Guidelines and application may be picked up in person from the Main Library, located at 1 Belden Avenue, or at the SoNo Library, located at 10 Washington Street.

The library website also has more information on the guidelines and application.