RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - Nominations for the North Carolina poet laureate will be accepted until October 14, according to the state Department of Cultural Resources. The poet laureate is the state ambassador of North Carolina literature.

 

Nominations can be made online at www.NCDCR.gov/PoetLaureate. 

 

The selection process is being led by N.C. Department of Cultural Resources Secretary Susan Kluttz. Gov. Pat McCrory will announce his selection in early December.

 

The post was created in 1935.

 

"I am thrilled and encouraged by the quality and quantity of the nominations we've received so far," said Secretary Kluttz in a statement. "The arts, and poetry in particular, are so important to the wonderful quality of life we enjoy here in North Carolina."

 

The selection criteria for the poet laureate position include:

 

-- A North Carolina resident with deep connections to the cultural life of this state

 

-- Literary excellence of the writer's work

 

-- Influence on other writers and appreciation of literature in its diversity throughout the state

 

-- Ability and willingness to conduct the public engagement duties of the office

 

--Statewide, national or international reputation

 

Nominations for the position will be accepted online through Oct. 14 at www.NCDCR.gov/PoetLaureate. Only electronic submissions will be accepted.