In 2024 the Galena Public Library appointed the first Galena Poet Laureate in partnership with the City of Galena, the Galena School District, and the Galena Center for the Arts. During his term, Ted Williams met with local groups and organizations, wrote and produced the original poetical play A Darkness Lovely, implemented the 200 Poems for 200 Years legacy project, worked with poets of all ages, and so much more. In April 2026 his term will come to an end.
Between February 1 and 28, 2026, applications from Galena poets will be accepted by the selection committee. All applicants must be Galena residents for the duration of the 2026-2026 term and over the age of twenty-five. The selection committee will then meet to narrow the applicants to three finalists. Those finalists will each be interviewed. During the process, aside from a background in written poetry, the committee particularly emphasizes experience in performance and community engagement as necessary criteria.
Galena is the smallest city in the nation to establish a Poet Laureate position, which entails working in the community to celebrate the heritage, uniqueness, diversity, and achievements of the City of Galena through the appreciation and art of poetry.
The 2026 selection committee is composed of representatives from the Galena Public Library, the Galena School District, the City of Galena, Galena Book & Paper, and the Galena Center for the Arts as well as the current Poet Laureate.
Beginning February 1, 2026, interested poets may apply online below or on paper by downloading and printing the application also below. Visit the Galena Public Library if you’d like us to print you an application.
