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 Now Open
Looking ahead: issue xxiii and beyond
issue xxiii's Theme: Legacy
It is what connects all parts of time: the past into the present and onward, extending through the future. It is an essential component of what we remember from the past, and of what continues to shape the events of history long after we are gone.
Concerning the past, how have lasting traditions impacted you? What ideas have been passed down through the ages, and how will these influences continue to persist into the time ahead? The concept of the future also arrives hand in hand with impermanence. What will remain of us? Will our actions leave a lasting impact on the world?
However, most of all, legacy is a mark of the individual, YOU, who can choose how you want your legacy to be, as legacy is also the bringer of choice and change. Instead of defining what legacy is, it matters more what it can be, what it has the potential to grow into, and that is a power that remains with you, our powerful teen voices.
elementia accepts original poetry, fiction, nonfiction, graphic stories, photography and illustrations.
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".