Youth Poet Laureate Submission Tips

This is a blog by the Social Justice Services team

Getting Started

Are you or do you know a teen interested in becoming the 2026 Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate (YPL)? Unsure where to begin?

YPL Application Tips

Here are a few tips to consider when submitting your YPL application:

1. Apply! Even if you don’t think your work is ready yet, the application process is also a great way to learn and improve for next year. 
2. Read your poems out loud. This helps you catch mistakes you might miss if you just read it to yourself.
3. Record yourself reading one of your poems. Practice speaking slowly and clearly. Pause between lines so listeners can take in your words.
4. Invite a poet friend to apply! It's more fun when someone you know is part of the process, too! 
5. View the Youth Poet Laureate FAQs. You'll find helpful tips about the application, what to submit, and how the judges review submissions.  

Additional questions? Please email us at ypl@aclibrary.org.