Have a Passion for Poetry? Apply to Become San Mateo County’s Poet Laureate

Redwood City - The Office of Arts and Culture has extended the deadline to apply to become the County's Poet Laureateuntil Jan. 22, 2025.

The Poet Laureate serves as an ambassador and advocate for poetry, literature and arts throughout San Mateo County during a two-year term.

"Poets put words to our feelings and help to bring meaning to our emotions," said David J. Canepa, president of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors. "We encourage newer poets with fresh ideas and established poets with their own unique voices to apply."

The position of County Poet Laureate represents a unique opportunity to champion the power of poetry to diverse audiences across San Mateo County. Supervisors established the position in 2013 with the goal of amplifying the role of poetry and literary arts.

The position receives an annual stipend of $5,000. Up to $2,000 is available during the two-year term to support programming.

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Available to serve a term from Spring 2025 to December 2027.
• Have lived in San Mateo County for at least three years.
• Have published one or more collections of poetry or self-published works that have appeared in print or online or have a substantial history of public spoken word performances.

Additional eligibility requirements, along with duties and links to biographies of past Poet Laureates, can be found on the website of the Office of Arts and Culture.

The deadline for receipt of the application packet and supporting documents is Jan. 22, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

Apply here.

Once the application window has closed, a selection committee (composed of previous Poet Laureates, among others) will schedule interviews. The Office of Arts and Culture will then make a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors who will make the official appointment.

Media Contact

Michelle Durand
Chief Communications Officer
[email protected]