Durango Poet Laureate Program

We are pleased to invite you to apply for the first ever Durango Poet Laureate Program!  The program is funded by the City of Durango's Lodgers Tax Arts and Culture Fund and administered by the Friends of the Durango Public Library and a Poet Laureate Committee. The program is set to create a vibrant platform for local poets to share their unique voices while engaging with the community at large.

There are two Poet Laureate positions available, an Adult and a Youth.  The Committee will choose the finalists from the applications and submissions. It is a 3-year appointment – January 2024-December 2026. There will be a stipend awarded to the Adult Poet Laureate in the amount of $6,000 for the 3-year term and for the Youth Poet Laureate the amount of $1,500 for the 3-year term.

Applications for the program are now being accepted from La Plata County residents until October 16, 2023.

Poet Laureate Roles and Responsibilities
Funciones y Responsabilidades del Poeta Laureado

Poet Laureate Submission Form
Formulario de Solicitud del Poeta Laureado

The Durango Poet Laureate shall act as a representative of the poetic arts through recitation of original poetry and attendance at various events and community gatherings, creation of poetry that reflects our unique past and present, and furthering Durango’s creative economy through active engagement with the community.

Be the first Poet Laureate in Durango’s history!  This is an opportunity to uplift your voice, poetry, and the creative culture in our community.