Upcoming youth programs: Poetry Contest

York County Libraries are seeking entries for the 36th Annual “A Celebration of Poetry” contest. First through twelfth grade students residing in York and Adams Counties are encouraged to submit an original poem in their style of choice. Entries will be accepted online from November 17, 2024, to January 17, 2025. The complete contest rules and official entry form are available at poetry.yorklibraries.org.

“This annual poetry contest provides a terrific opportunity for area students to stretch their writing skills and share their talent with the community,” says York County Libraries President Robert F. Lambert. Entries are judged by a panel of local educators and poets. Following careful review of the entries, the judges will select winners in the following age groups: Grades 1-2, Grades 3-4, Grades 5-6, Grades 7-8, Grades 9-10, and Grades 11-12.

“Not only is writing poetry a great way to express your thoughts and your ideas, it can really be a lot of fun.  I know we always enjoy reading the entries.” says York County Libraries Youth Services Director Mindy McDonnell. “The participants display so much creativity and imagination-- I think the judges have a really tough job!”

Annually, winning poems are published in a commemorative booklet and are read by the students during “A Celebration of Poetry” event in their honor.  Each winner receives a complimentary copy. New in 2025, the booklet will be added to a curated poetry gift bundle available at the YCL Store. Anyone needing additionalinformation about the poetry contest should email ysdepartment@yorklibraries.org.

York County Libraries includes 13 libraries that provide the latest in print and digital information, bestsellers, Wi-Fi, story times, book discussions and over 50 databases. In addition to their extensive collection of 534,000 physical items, they offer over one million digital library materials for loan. All are available for free with a York County Libraries card. Community members without a card are invited to request one at yorklibraries.org at no cost.