Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Young writers along the Alabama coast are invited to share their creativity in the 21st annual youth poetry contest, organized by the Friends of the Gulf Shores Library and the Orange Beach Public Library. The event coincides with National Poetry Month in April and aims to spotlight student voices from kindergarten through high school. Organizers say the long-running contest is designed to encourage a love of reading and writing among children and teens. They hope students at all experience levels will feel welcome to participate.

The contest is open to students in grades K–12, including homeschooled students. Prizes will be awarded based on individual merit and grade level, giving younger writers a fair chance alongside older students. Monetary awards will be given to first-, second-, and third-place entries in each division.

While 6 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, is the official deadline for submissions, they will accept entries turned in on Saturday. Entries should be typed or neatly printed on standard printer paper. Each poem must include a completed entry form so judges can match winning work to the correct student.

Contest judges will closely examine three main elements when reading the poems. They will evaluate how creatively students use language, how effectively each poem appeals to the senses, and how clearly the theme is developed from beginning to end. Organizers say this focus on imagery and strong ideas helps students build important writing skills.

Entry forms are available at schools and public libraries in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, making it easy for families to pick one up. For more information, families can call the Orange Beach Public Library at 251-981-2923 or email kbradberry@orangebeachal.gov. Library staff members say they are eager to see what young writers will create this year and are already looking forward to reading the students’ poems.