Washington Street Library Poetry Contest

The Washington Street Library is hosting a poetry contest to celebrate creativity, self-expression, and the power of words! Open to all ages, this contest invites community members to share their original poetry for a chance to win a $50 cash prize. Libraries are places of storytelling, reflection, and connection—what better way to showcase local voices than through poetry?

Contest Guidelines:

• Anyone with an ACLS library card can submit one poem
• All ages can enter and entries will be grouped into two age groups, one winner will be selected from each group
• All entries must be submitted by April 6
• Poems must be typed, 150 words max, and fit on one page
• Each submission must include completed entry form
• Submissions should be original poetry, written without the use of AI, and not previously published
• Poems must be appropriate for all ages

Contest Deadlines:

• March 24-April 6: Contest open to submissions
• April 7 – April 11: ACLS Staff select finalists
• April 14 – April 18: Public vote
• April 22: Winners announced at celebration event!

Prize:

• $50 cash prize!

Each entry form must include the participant’s full name, age group, ACLS library card number, and contact information. Please don’t forget to submit this form along with your poem entry!

Return this form and typed poem to the Washington Street Library, or email them both to washingtonstlibrary@alleganycountylibrary.info by April 6.

Winning poet’s names and poems may appear on promotions including, but not limited to social media, the library website, newspaper, and other communications.