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Shawnee Library is closed through late Oct. for repairs.
Our contest prompt for September - December is Humanity.
Our fall writing contest is all about Humanity and is lovingly borrowed from our teen literary magazine, elementia.
Across generations, distances and cultures, our humanity connects us. Despite this seemingly infinite connection, one of the most fundamental parts of being human is being unique. This dichotomy is at the crux of the human experience and something we have all shared.
Tell us your stories: those of your unique human experience. Share with us the joys and pains that have been a part of your humanity. Speak on your relationships: those with family, friends, significant others. When have you felt most connected to other humans? Most distant? What makes you feel close to your own humanity? Tell us about the times you felt less than human, and when others convinced you that you were. Has humanity changed? Or will it? We seek expressions of your culture, traditions, mannerisms. Share your innermost thoughts and your outermost traits. What makes you unique? What makes you human?
Poetry: 60 line limit
Prose: 1000 word limit
Read more about the guidelines and enter your original works »
Read previous adult Writing Contest winners »
The Fall Youth Writing and Sticker Design Contests have closed. Please check back for more information about future contests. In the meanwhile, read previous contest winners!
Annual Friends Bookmark Contest:
The 2024 Friends Bookmark Contest is complete. Winning bookmarks will be printed and distributed at our branches and Friends events this fall.
Submit art, poetry and prose for publication in Volume 7.
We currently have an open call for submissions for our annual publication, Volume. The authors or artists of chosen works will receive a $200 honorarium. Submission deadline is July 31, 2024. Read more and submit your work »