BCLS Hosts Poetry Contest in Three Age Levels Sponsored by Friends of the Berkeley County Library

Berkeley County Library System (BCLS) invites residents to participate in the Berkeley County Library System Poetry Contest for a chance to win a first, second, or third place prize in the following age levels: 

• Children ages 6-12;
• Teens ages 13-17;
• Adults ages 18 and above

Winner selection will occur as follows:

• 1^st  Place = $50 cash
• 2^nd Place = $25 cash
• 3^rd Place = $15 cash

Contest Details:   

• Participants may submit one poem by visiting BCLS Poetry Contest or in-person at any BCLS branch library during April 3-8, 2023.
• Participants must reside in Berkeley County with one entry per person.
• The poem is the participant’s original work and does not exceed 250 words.

•  Online and printed entries must use Times New Roman serif font, size 12 in PDF, DOC, or DOCX file format. 
• Entries must not contain profanity or graphic content. 
• Entrants under 18 must have parent/guardian permission to enter.
• All entries are final. No substitutions or editing will be permitted after submission.

Poetry Judging Criteria: 

• Uses poetic language such as alliteration, onomatopoeia, imagery, metaphors and similes to enhance the poem.
• Uses rhythm or rhyme for understanding and elevation.
• Grammar and punctuation, if included, is used to convey consistent meaning.
• Voice and tone is used for imagery.
• First, Second, and Third place winners will be selected from each age group by a panel of judges using a 10-point scoring system.
• Poems may be published on Berkeley County Library System social media channels.

Poetry Reading: 

• On Friday, April 21, 2023, Moncks Corner Library will host an Open Mic Night. Winners in each category will be invited to read their poems and all attendees are welcome to read their poem.

Please RSVP to 843-719-4223 if planning to attend this event which will include light refreshments. 

For more information on this contest, contact Romona Shaheed 843-719-4223 or romona.shaheed@berkeleycountysc.gov.

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