April is poetry month!

The Belfast Free Library invites all Youth in Waldo County to write and submit a poem for the April Youth Poetry Contest!

This year’s theme:

Where the Land Meets the Sea: Poems about Home, Saltwater, and Soil

Judged by the Belfast Poet Laureate

Poems are to be submitted in person or by email. Include your name, age, school, and contact information. The deadline is April 30, 2026.

In-person submissions can be brought to the Children’s Circulation Desk on the 2nd Floor of the Belfast Free Library. Email submissions can be sent to sholman@belfastlibrary.org.

A Poetry Reception will be held Monday, May 4th at 4:00pm. All are welcome!

There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes in Younger and Teen categories. Winners will be announced and presented their prize at the Poetry Reception.

Submission Deadline: April 30th
In-Person Submissions: 2nd Floor Children’s Circulation Desk
Email Submissions: sholman@belfastlibrary.org

Poetry Reception

Date: Monday, May 4
Time: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Location: Abbott Room at the Belfast Free Library