The City of Memphis Office of Creative & Cultural Economy (OCCE), in partnership with Memphis Public Libraries, is proud to launch the inaugural Memphis Poet Laureate Program—a historic opportunity to celebrate and elevate the literary arts in our city. 

About the Program 

The Memphis Poet Laureate will serve as an official ambassador for poetry and the literary arts, inspiring creativity and civic pride across the community. 

Program Highlights: 

• Two-year term, appointed by the Mayor after nomination by a selection committee 

• $20,000 honorarium awarded to the Poet Laureate 

• Community engagement through workshops, public appearances, and ceremonial readings 

• Signature Project: The Poet Laureate will design and lead a community-oriented program addressing a local issue through the literary arts 

Eligibility Requirements: 
Applicants must: 

• Be 20 years or older (Youth applicants should refer to the Memphis Youth Poet Laureate Program) 

• Be a Memphis resident for at least two years 

• Have at least four published works 

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to serving as a public face for Memphis and advocating for literacy and the arts 

Application Materials Include: 

• Biography and resume 

• Letters of nomination and interest 

• Responses to short-answer questions 

• Four sample works (written or performed) 

APPLY HERE BY FEBRUARY 28