SANTA CRUZ COUNTY — October 26, 2026. Local poets still have time to apply for Santa Cruz County’s honorary Poet Laureate position. Applications opened October 15 and will remain open through Sunday, November 15, 2026, according to Santa Cruz Public Libraries and its county cultural partners.

What the role involves

The position is intended to help make poetry visible and accessible across communities, including through education, public engagement and celebration of different local voices. A community panel will evaluate applicants and the county Board of Supervisors will make the formal appointment.

The announcement describes the post as an honorary role. It does not specify a salary, contract or guaranteed paid residency, and applicants should not assume those benefits are attached. The selection process and required supporting materials are described on the libraries’ application page.

How to participate

Apply through Santa Cruz Public Libraries’ Poet Laureate portal, where applicants may find instructions and a form. Spanish-language information is available at the corresponding Spanish-language page. The library also offers printable application materials for residents who cannot use an online form; all required supporting documents must be included.

Questions may be sent to poetlaureate@santacruzpl.org. The effort is organized with Santa Cruz County Parks, Arts Council Santa Cruz County and Poetry Santa Cruz.

Primary source: Official Poet Laureate application announcement, October 7.

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