How to Apply – Instructions for 2019

To be eligible, applicants must currently reside in Queens, and have lived in Queens for at least the past two years. Finalists will be asked to provide proof of their two-year residency.

The deadline to apply is September 20th 2019st at 5:00 PM EST

To begin your application for Queens Poet Laureate Position, click on the link below, complete the form, and press submit once you are done:

Queens Poet Laureate Application Form

  1. Submit up to 10 pages of poetry. Some of this work sample should be inspired by or relate to the borough of Queens although that not need not be its primary focus. Poems in your work sample can be published or unpublished. If published, please indicate where the poems appeared. If you’re a bilingual poet, you’re welcome to apply, but your work sample must be in English and you must be able to orally present your English-language poetry.
  2. Include a poetry-focused resume of 1 to 2 pages listing your major publications. Poet Laureate candidates must demonstrate a significant publication record in English. We want to know if you have published poetry collections or chapbooks and if your poetry has been included in recognized journals, anthologies, online poetry websites or recorded spoken word presentations. We also want information on your pubic readings and any grants, fellowships, awards or other poetry-related recognition you may have received.
  3. Write an essay (500 words maximum) on why you want to be Queens Poet Laureate. What is your creative vision for the position and what do you hope to accomplish over the three-year term? Tell us your ideas for conducting outreach to the highly diverse population of Queens. What would you bring to the role that makes you the ideal candidate?

If you have trouble completing the Application, please contact [email protected]

History of the Queens Poet Laureate

 Past Queens Poet Laureates

Eligibility, criteria and expectations