Poet Laureate applications now being accepted

The 3-year term of Branford’s first ever Poet Laureate, Judith K. Liebmann, PhD, is coming to a close at the end of 2026. As the inaugural Poet Laureate, Dr. Liebmann established regular programs and workshops with attendees from all age groups. And now it is time for someone else to step into the role and continue to celebrate the value of poetry, using it as a means to inspire, inform, and entertain the community at large.

Applications for the 2027-2029 term are now being accepted and are due by October 16, 2026. Click here for a fillable PDF application.

The Branford Poet Laureate serves as the ambassador of the community’s vibrant literary life, promoting its literary community, and celebrating the written word.

Requirements include a love and knowledge of poetry, experience writing poetry, and a willingness to teach poetry writing workshops and organize poetry readings. The applicant must meet the residency requirement for obtaining a library card at one of the Branford public libraries, must be 18 years of age or older, and willing to collaborate with other town poets to develop and present poetry-related activities. The three-year post is an honorary position and carries no stiped.

Applicants can self-nominate or be nominated by others, and should submit a completed application form, a brief author’s statement, samples of up to five poems, a resume or CV, and two letters of recommendation to the Blackstone Library by October 16, 2026. Please email submissions to Katy McNicol, Library Director, at kmcnicol@blackstonelibrary.org, or submissions can be mailed or hand delivered to the library at 758 Main Street, Branford, CT 06405.

For additional information, visit the Poet Laureate page of the Town of Branford’s website.