ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – Tompkins County has its next Poet Laureate.

Janie Bibbie was appointed at Tuesday night’s Tompkins County Legislature meeting. She succeeds Dr. Christine Kitano, who served in the role from 2021-2022.

“The Tompkins County Poet Laureate plays an important role in uplifting the art of poetry in our community,” said Tompkins County Legislator Amanda Champion. “Words have the power to inspire and transform lives. I look forward to seeing how Ms. Bibbie will share her gift with the residents of Tompkins County.”

Bibbie has lived in the county for 50 years. She serves as trustee, deaconess and leader of the caregiver group of Calvary Baptist Church. She is additionally a member of Business Leaders of Colors, GIAC Senior Program, and the Tompkins County Quilters Guild. She has authored twelve volumes of poetry, including Pieces of Life: Poems from Smooth and Broken Places and Keep Moving: Poems for What’s Next.

Megan Barber is the Executive Director of the Community Arts Partnership, which conducts the selection process for Tompkins County’s Poet Laureate.

“We received nominations for eight outstanding local poets, each with unique ideas about how to put poetry in service to the community.” said Barber. “We are so excited about Janie’s appointment.”

The Tompkins County Legislature established the position of Poet Laureate in 2001 to recognize local poets, enrich education, and enhance the county’s position as a cultural center by integrating poetry into the community. Janie Bibbie is the county’s 11th Poet Laureate.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to encourage members of our community to join me in reading, writing, and sharing poetry.” said Bibbie.