Poetic Strokes

SELCO staff surveyed all participating poets. 89% stated the Poetic Strokes contest met their expectations and increased their interest in writing poetry. 96% said they were more likely to submit to Poetic Strokes and/or other writing contests in the future. 89%, were more likely to read local poets and poetry in general, and 100% were more likely to connect with other local poets. 96% rated the Poetic Strokes experience Good or Excellent. Comments from the poets include: "This book of poetry is first-rate! It could be entered in the Minnesota Book Award contest." "It is a lovely format – and it makes me happy to have my work in area libraries. The blind judging competition is accessible and fair." Based on patron surveys, 100% thought the Poetic Strokes anthology enhanced their knowledge and understanding of local poets, increased their interest in reading and writing poetry, and made them likely to attend future poetry workshops and/or readings at the library. 1,500 posters and other public announcements, inviting poets to submit their work, were distributed region-wide. 202 poets submitted a total of 202 poems for judging from 34 different communities, representing all 11 SELCO counties. 30 poems by 30 poets were selected by the judging panel for publication in the 2012 Poetic Strokes anthology. 1,200 copies of the Poetic Strokes anthology were ordered, printed, and distributed to SELCO member libraries, contributing poets, and legislative members. 334 patrons attended the 2012 Poets at the Library tour.