The Santa Monica Public Library has opened applications in the search for Santa Monica's next poet laureate.
This honorary position will serve a two-year term beginning March 1, 2026, and receive an annual stipend of $5,000. The city's poet laureate will engage with the community by creating an annual original poem celebrating Santa Monica, presenting two annual writing workshops or poetry readings at public schools or community events, organizing poetry-related events during National Poetry Month in April, and participating in local events.
The Poet Laureate Review Panel, composed of community members and city staff, will review applications and make the final selection. The panel-selected poet laureate will be announced before the term starts in March 2026.
"We're excited to continue Santa Monica's Poet Laureate program and look forward to working with our next ambassador of verse," Library Director Erica Cuyugan said. "This program continues to highlight the importance of poetry and creative expression while offering meaningful ways to engage with our community."
Santa Monica's Poet Laureate program was developed and launched in 2023, with Anne Carmack selected as the city's first poet laureate in 2024.
"As Santa Monica's inaugural Poet Laureate, I have had the distinct honor of engaging with the community through poetry and in sincere celebration of the literary arts at a local level," Carmack said. "As my term comes to an end in 2026, I look forward to working with the next selected poet to continue building this inspiring program."
The program is open to Santa Monica residents 18 and older. Applications are due by Nov. 30.
For more information and to apply, visit santamonica.gov/programs/poet-laureate.
Edited by SMDP Staff