On November 18, 2008, the Board of Supervisors approved the establishment of the position of Santa Clara County Poet Laureate, to elevate poetry in the consciousness of Santa Clara County residents and to help celebrate the literary arts. SVCREATES administers this program in partnership with the Santa Clara County Library District (SCCLD) and with the support of Poetry Center San José.
The Poet Laureate is an honorary two-year position, in service to the community. The Poet Laureate will be formally appointed by the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, acting on a recommendation determined through an artistic and community panel selection process coordinated by SVCREATES.
During their term, the Poet Laureate will act as an advocate for poetry, literature, and the arts; and contribute to Santa Clara County’s poetry and literary legacy through public readings and participation in civic events.
The next Poet Laureate will serve from January 2027 - December 2028 and will receive a stipend of $6,000 per year.
Applications for Santa Clara County Poet Laureate open on Monday, July 6, 2026. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, August 14, 2026 at 5:00 pm.
Online Application Workshop on July 10: