Dallas Public Library provides a chance for aspiring poets to express themselves through a competition
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Public Library is offering a wonderful opportunity for young, aspiring poets through its “Express Yourself!” youth poetry competition. This contest not only provides a platform for these young poets to showcase their talent but also a chance to get their work published in a bound anthology, an honor that could be a significant milestone in their budding literary journeys.
An Opportunity for Young Poets
The competition is currently open, with the deadline for submissions set for January 31, 2024. This gives ample time for students from various grade levels to hone their poetic skills and submit their best work. The contest is divided into three grade categories: second to fifth, sixth to eighth, and ninth to twelfth, allowing for a fair and age-appropriate evaluation of the poems.
Sixty finalists, spanning these categories, will be chosen, and each will receive a medal and a copy of the poetry anthology that will feature their submitted poem. Furthermore, these finalists will have the opportunity to attend an award ceremony scheduled for April 25, 2024. Finalists will be notified of their selection via email by March 31.
Special Awards and Scholarships
The competition also holds the promise of special recognition and scholarships. One exceptional poet will be honored with the Joe M. and Doris Russell Dealey Award of achievement, along with a $500 scholarship. Additionally, a winner from each grade category will be selected to receive a $100 scholarship.
Submission Guidelines
The contest welcomes poems in both English and Spanish, emphasizing the library’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Submissions will be judged on their originality, and only one entry per poet is accepted. It’s important to note that the poems must be the writer’s original work. The poems must not have more than 20 lines, and residency or attendance at a Dallas school are additional requirements.
For those interested in participating or learning more about the contest rules, detailed information is available at the Dallas Public Library’s official contest page: https://dallaslibrary2.org/childrensCenter/youthPoetryContest/.
This poetry competition is a unique chance for young poets in Dallas to express themselves creatively, gain recognition, and perhaps even begin their journey in the world of literature. It represents not just a contest, but a celebration of youthful creativity and the power of words.
