Norwalk Public Library Introduces 2025-27 Norwalk Poet Laureate

News release from the Norwalk Public Library:

NORWALK, CT — [On] Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Norwalk Public Library in partnership with the Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission, and Norwalk Business Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine E. Schneider as the city of Norwalk’s new Poet Laureate. Katherine will serve a two-year term, beginning March 17, to promote creative expression and appreciation for poetry among Norwalk residents.

Both a local resident and a civically engaged poet, Katherine will participate in and coordinate ceremonial, educational, literary and cultural events that showcase diverse ages, cultures, and orientations in Norwalk’s urban and suburban areas. Her poetry advocacy will include public readings, creating poetry programs and participating in civic events at schools, and public and private events to promote a sense of unity through poetry. She will also work with local youth and community groups to create new works inspired by the people and places of Norwalk.

Katherine has an MFA in poetry from Fairfield University. She has a published poetry collection titled, I Used to Remember the Story of How, and she has poems in several literary publications, including the 2023 and 2024 editions of The Connecticut Literary Anthology. Katherine is the co-founder and co-host of the FUMFA Poets & Writers online reading series and in-person monthly readings at Eco-Evolution in SoNo. Her work resonates with audiences both locally and beyond. Katherine’s passion for poetry and lively, energetic personality will enable her to galvanize and connect with diverse audiences.

"I am truly honored to serve as Norwalk’s Poet Laureate," said Katherine. "I look forward to celebrating the power of poetry as a tool for expression, connection, and reflection. My goal is to foster a deeper appreciation for the written word and to work alongside residents to bring poetry to life in ways that are meaningful to our community.

“I am thrilled to welcome Katherine Schneider as Norwalk’s new Poet Laureate. Her passion for poetry and commitment to community engagement will amplify diverse voices across the City of Norwalk,” said Mayor, Harry Rilling. “I look forward to seeing her work and I know she will do an excellent job helping our residents foster a deeper appreciation for the arts and creating opportunities for residents of all ages to connect through creative writing."

"We are excited to welcome Katherine Schneider as our new City Poet Laureate," said Bill Hayden, out-going Poet Laureate. "Her talent, vision, and dedication to community engagement will enrich the cultural fabric of our city. We are confident that she will continue on our mission to inspire everyone in embracing poetry as a powerful means of storytelling and reflection."

“I can’t wait to see what Katherine brings to her new role. Her energy is the equivalent of popping a champagne cork after the bottle has been shaken up….and it is contagious,” said Sherelle Harris, Library Director.

Meet Katherine, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. on April 12 p.m. at Factory Underground Studio, 16 Isaac Street, for a special event entitled Norwalk Poets LIVE! during which she will be honored. The event, co-sponsored by Factory Underground Studio, Norwalk Public Library and the City of Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission, will feature recitations by prominent Norwalk poets, and special guests. The event will be recorded and streamed live on WFUT-DB, Factory Underground's internet radio station. Performances begin at 7 p.m.

Laureates Emeriti include:

• Bill Hayden (2020-22, 2022-2025)
• Laurel Peterson (2016-19)

For additional information about Katherine Schneider, the Norwalk Poet Laureate and upcoming events being scheduled, please visit www.norwalkpl.org or call Sherelle Harris, 203.899.2780 ext. 15123.

The Norwalk Public Library System, with our open access to diverse resources, is the information and cultural center for Norwalk citizens and businesses.

— Photo from Norwalk Public Library. Front row from left to right: Katherine Schneider, Norwalk Poet Laureate (2025-2027) and Sherelle Harris, Library Director. Back row from left to right: Cynde Lahey, Director of Adult Information Services; Bill Hayden and Laurel Peterson, former Norwalk Poet Laureates; and Marc Alan, Factory Underground Studio Director of Marketing.