In celebration of National Poetry Month, Appleton Public Library Children's Services is sponsoring a poetry contest for all area children ages 5-12 this April. Library staff will be working through local schools to spread the word about the contest, which will run for the entire month. All entries submitted will be displayed both on the Poet Tree in the children's section of the library and on the APL children's web page. Poems will be judged on creativity, originality, and use of language, and prizes will be awarded in early May to the top poems written by 5-8 year olds and 9-12 year olds.

So, word wizards, add up those adjectives, sharpen your similes, pick up those poem-writing pens, and plan to enter the APL poetry contest. Then be sure to stop by the library to check out other poems and see your creativity on display - hanging from the Poet Tree!

For more information on the contest, contact Children's Services at 832-6187 or visit us online at www.apl.org