Holyoke City Councilor Advocates for Poet Laureate Position

In a bid to enhance the cultural landscape of Holyoke, City Councilor Anne Thalheimer has proposed the establishment of a poet laureate position. This initiative aims to boost literacy and arts engagement in the city while supporting its creative economy. Thalheimer filed an order for the proposal, which is set to be discussed in the upcoming City Council meeting.

Advancing Arts and Literacy

The poet laureate role has been effectively utilized by many municipalities to promote poetry and the literary arts through various public programs, readings, and workshops. Thalheimer elaborated on the significance of the position, stating, “A Poet Laureate is a poet appointed by a government or other conferring institution who uses the role to foster public appreciation of poetry and literary arts, and to advance culture, literacy, and creative expression.”

Similar programs are currently operational in surrounding cities such as Easthampton, Northampton, and Springfield, where several former laureates reside in Holyoke. Despite this, Holyoke lacks a comparable initiative. Traditionally, poet laureate positions at the municipal level include a modest annual stipend, typically ranging from $500 to $1,000, alongside public engagement responsibilities.

Funding and Community Support

Thalheimer noted that funding for such programs is generally sourced through grants or private donations, rather than from municipal budgets. “It’s a program that supports our creative economy in Holyoke, maybe would cost $1,000 a year … and could be a positive, innovative thing that adds value overall to the city,” she stated.

If the program moves forward, it would be developed in collaboration with organizations such as the Holyoke Local Cultural Council, the mayor’s office, and the Tourism Advisory Committee. Initial discussions have also explored partnerships with local institutions including the public library, Holyoke Public Schools, and community organizations like Nueva Esperanza and Enlace de Familias. There is even the potential for creating a youth poet laureate position.

The proposal is expected to be referred to the City Council’s Public Service Committee for further discussion. Thalheimer mentioned that this idea has gained traction among residents over the years, reflecting a broader interest in enhancing Holyoke’s cultural infrastructure amid ongoing economic development efforts.

The initiative has garnered additional support from fellow council members and is set to receive public comment as it progresses through the council process. Thalheimer aims to launch the program in 2027, potentially funded through a grant from the Holyoke Local Cultural Council. The next steps will likely involve forming an advisory committee, securing external funding, and determining the selection process for the poet laureate, either through applications or a mayoral appointment. Local poets and former laureates residing in Holyoke could play a crucial role in shaping the program.