Poetry Contest

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Annual Poetry Contest

Each spring, the Wilmington Memorial Library invites poets of all ages to participate in our Annual Poetry Contest. Whether you’re an experienced writer or trying poetry for the first time, the contest is a fun opportunity to share your creativity and celebrate the power of words.

The contest is open to children, teens, and adults, with winners selected in multiple age categories. Each year features a unique theme to inspire participants, while allowing plenty of room for individual creativity and expression.

Entries are reviewed by a panel of judges, and winners and honorable mentions are recognized at a special poetry celebration hosted by the library. Over the years, hundreds of community members have participated, sharing poems that are thoughtful, imaginative, and inspiring.

Stay tuned for the 2027 Poetry Contest theme!

A woman kneels and holds a microphone and a decorated tube for a young boy speaking, while another toddler stands beside her. They are in a bright room with a screen and presentation in the background.
A smiling woman and three children pose together indoors in front of a projector screen displaying “Wilmington Memorial Library’s 2024 Poetry Night” and an image of a book titled “Words Grow.”.
Two children stand indoors; the boy holds a microphone and a piece of paper as the girl looks on attentively. Both are dressed nicely, with the girl wearing a blue dress and bow, and the boy in a collared shirt and navy pants.
A group of children and teens stand smiling in front of a screen that reads Poetry Contest Reception at the Wilmington Memorial Library. One girl holds a certificate.
Three adults stand indoors, holding certificates and smiling at the camera. Behind them is a screen displaying Wilmington Memorial Librarys 2025 Poetry Contest Reception with the Verse Versus logo at the top.
A group of children and two adults stand smiling in a classroom with a Congratulations message displayed on a screen behind them. The room has wooden floors and large windows on the side.