elementia Literary Magazine
What is elementia?
elementia is Johnson County Library’s award-winning literary arts magazine, dedicated to amplifying the voices of young adults. It features original poetry, fiction, nonfiction, graphic stories, photography, and illustrations—all created by teens.
For over 20 years, teen volunteers and Library staff have collaborated to produce 22 powerful issues and one anthology, publishing the work of more than 650 young creatives.
Free copies of elementia are available at all Johnson County Library locations.
Submit Your Art!
elementia Submissions Closing Soon
elementia xxiii Updates & Key Dates
elementia literary magazine invites teen creators to explore how the past, present and future connect through the marks we leave behind, while also sharing how anyone ages 12–19 can submit work for consideration.
Key Dates for elementia xxiii
- Submissions are due January 1, 2026 at elementia's Submittable
- Selections will be announced and design work will begin in Spring 2026
- The new issue will be released Summer 2026
For more information on what elementia is, what to submit and inspirational works from teen creators, check out our promotional material on our upcoming issue in our archive or read our digital Flipbook.
elementia xiii Inspiration
elementia issue xxiii - our theme is Legacy
Watch elementia xxii's Reception
Every year, elementia staff, contributors, and Library staff gather to celebrate the release of the new issue. Emceed by two of elementia's teen editors, enjoy poetry, writing, and artists' statements on the theme of "Humanity".