American poet Ted Kooser served as U.S. Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry from 2004-2006 at the Library of Congress. This guide provides access to selected print and online resources related to Kooser’s life and work.
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Authors:
Maura Byrne, Intern, Poetry and Literature Center
Anne Holmes, Digital Content Manager, Poetry and Literature Center
Peter Armenti, Reference Specialist, Researcher Engagement & General Collections
Penny White, Reference Librarian, Researcher Engagement & General Collections
Created: August 10, 2020
Last Updated: April 18, 2025
Introduction
U.S. Poet Laureate Ted Kooser, 2004-2006. Photo credit: Sarah Greene.
On August 12, 2004, Librarian of Congress James H. Billington appointed Ted Kooser to be the 13th Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress. On making the appointment, Billington said,
"Ted Kooser is a major poetic voice for rural and small town America and the first Poet Laureate chosen from the Great Plains. His verse reaches beyond his native region to touch on universal themes in accessible ways."
Ted Kooser took up his duties in fall 2004, opening the Library's annual literary season on October 7 in the Montpelier Room. Kooser was appointed for a second term on April 7, 2005, and finished his duties in spring 2006.