POETRY CONTEST
POETRY CONTEST
Thank you to all of our 2025 contest participants and to all who attended the Poetry Showcase on April 24, 2025.
2025 CONTEST WINNERS
Child, Grades 2 to 4 - Read the Winning Poems
- 1st place: Wren Hilker for “I Ran a Marathon”
- 2nd place: Meera Shah for “Blooming Flower”
- 3rd place: Paisley Simmons for “I Believe”
Child, Grades 5 to 8 - Read the Winning Poems
- 1st place: Piper Parson for “Untitled”
- 2nd place: Annelise Madren for “Consequences of Your Actions”
- 3rd place: Sylvia Downey for “Untitled”
Teens, Grades 9 to 12 - Read the Winning Poems
- 1st place: Chinwendu Chima “Untitled”
- 2nd place: Trinity Sayger for “My Home”
- 3rd place: Elana Derrow for “The Great Pondhawk”
Adult, 18 and up - Read the Winning Poems
- 1st place: John Aghishian for “of all places”
- 2nd place: Onita Morgan-Edwards for “Intranational”
- 3rd place: T.J. McGuire for “Give Quiche a Chance At the Coexist Buffet”
2026 CONTEST RULES
Entries accepted February 9 - March 6, 2026
- 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 2026 Poetry Contest! This year’s theme is in celebration of Toni Morrison, and works should delve into “Uncovering Truth.” 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 ----------------------------------. 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 9, 2026.
Thank you for you interest in the Dayton Metro Library Poetry Contest but our entry period has ended.