FLINT, Mich. — To honor its 175th Anniversary, the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library is excited to announce the return of one of its most unique and beloved historic programs: The Julia Moore Poetry Contest. This contest is part of a yearlong celebration of the library’s impact, service, and commitment to the Flint community since 1851.
It’s good to be bad!
Julia Moore (1847–1920), known as “The Sweet Singer of Michigan,” became famous not because her poetry was praised, but because it was joyfully bad. Audiences came to laugh at her work, not with it. But Moore always kept her sense of humor and once said, “You have come here and paid twenty-five cents to see a fool; I receive seventy-five dollars and see a whole houseful of fools.”
Her poems were sentimental, dramatic and often centered around disasters, tragedies and death. Nothing was off limits. And now the Library invites the public to embrace that same spirit in celebration of creativity, humor and community.
Do you love a rhyme that barely rhymes?
Do you feel a collapsed bridge is absolutely poem-worthy?
Do you think an awkward metaphor is sometimes exactly the right choice?
If so, this may be the contest is for you.
This contest is one of many opportunities throughout 2026 where the Library will uplift the history, our roots, and the voices that have shaped Flint for 175 years. For nearly two centuries, people have come through our doors to learn, laugh, imagine and create. This contest invites the community to celebrate that joyful legacy and to add their own voice to the story.
Entries will be accepted: January 1, 2026 through March 18, 2026
Winners’ celebration: Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Location: Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503
Winners may read their poem during the event, but it is not required.
Full contest details and online submissions are available at https://www.fpl.info/julia-moore-contest
About the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library
The Gloria Coles Flint Public Library serves as a vital community resource in Flint, Michigan. Dedicated to promoting literacy, lifelong learning and cultural enrichment, the Library offers a diverse collection of books, digital resources and engaging programs for all ages. Its welcoming environment and knowledgeable staff make the Library a hub for curiosity, inspiring individuals and families to explore new ideas and connect with their community.
