POETRY CONTEST
POETRY CONTEST
2025 CONTEST RULES
Entries accepted February 10 - March 5, 2025
- ONLY ONE POEM PER PERSON may be submitted in this contest.
- Adults and students in grades 2 - 12 who reside locally in Montgomery or surrounding counties (Miami, Greene, Warren, Preble) may enter.
- Poem must be no more than one page in length, typed in a plain typeface, with no fancy fonts, colors, or illustrations.
- Poems may be any subject matter but should avoid swearing or language that incites violence.
- Poems must be original and not previously published (self-published is acceptable).
- Spoken word entries are accepted; please provide a direct link to your video on YouTube. Do not tag the Library. For questions, contact contest@daytonmetrolibrary.org.
- Do not put your name or contact information on your poem. Your name should appear on the entry form or in the body of your email only.
- Poetry contest entries will only be accepted by email.
We’re thrilled to announce the 2025 Poetry Contest! This year’s theme is Where We Belong—a chance to express what home, community, and identity mean to you. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have your voice heard! Submit your entries for a chance to be part of the Poetry Showcase on April 24th, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Exciting prizes await the top three winners in each age category. Get your words ready and show us where you belong!
WHO CAN ENTER? Anyone residing in Montgomery and surrounding counties (Miami, Greene, Warren, Preble) in these contest categories:
- Child, Grades 2 - 4
- Child, Grades 5 - 8
- Teen, Grades 9 - 12
- Adults age 18 and up
- Staff Submission (Ineligible for Prizes)
JUDGING: Poems are judged on originality, creativity, impact, and adherence to contest rules. Judging is anonymous; each poem is assigned a number. Authors retain copyright to their work.
PRIZES: Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age category.
QUESTIONS? Email us at contest@daytonmetrolibrary.org for assistance. Poetry contest entries will only be accepted via the online form below, which opens February 10, 2025.
