The Carver County Library has officially announced the winners of its second annual Teen Poetry Contest, recognizing Corrine Norman and Ellie Aakre for their outstanding contributions. Norman was celebrated as the Division 1 winner, encompassing grades 6–8, while Aakre secured the top spot in Division 2, which includes grades 9–12.
Corrine Norman's winning entry in Division 1 was the poem titled “Be Still.” Her work was selected from a field of submissions within her age category, earning her recognition from the library. This division specifically caters to younger teen poets, providing a platform for their creative expression and encouraging literary pursuits from an early age.
In the higher age bracket, Ellie Aakre's poem, “The Last Page,” captivated judges to win Division 2. This category provides an opportunity for older students to showcase their more developed poetic voices and unique perspectives. Both winners received recognition for their achievements, highlighting the Carver County Library's commitment to fostering literary talent among local youth.
The Teen Poetry Contest, organized by the Carver County Library, aims to engage young people in the art of poetry and provide a public forum for their creative works. This marks the second iteration of the contest, demonstrating the library's ongoing dedication to promoting literacy and artistic engagement within the community. The contest's focus on different age divisions ensures that participants are evaluated among their peers, making the competition accessible and encouraging for a wide range of teen writers.
The announcement of the winners underscores the success of the initiative in drawing out imaginative and thoughtful submissions from young poets across Carver County. The library continues to serve as a vital cultural hub, offering various programs and events designed to enrich the lives of its patrons, with the Teen Poetry Contest being a notable example of its community engagement efforts.