Featured Events & Programs
APLD's Fifth Annual Young Authors
November 1 - 30, 2026
To honor National Novel Writing Month, aspiring young writers in grades 3-8 are invited to submit original short stories to APLD’s Fifth Annual Young Authors Short Story Contest. Each story must include the theme of Bravery and will be judged by APLD staff and past winners for creativity, style, and voice. The theme is open to all interpretations- make it your own! To participate, submit your short story between November 30, 2026 to any APLD location for a chance to have your story published on APLD's website and win a prize!
Short Story Contest Guidelines
Open to individuals in:
- School grades 3-8
- Living in the library's service area
Story must:
- Include the theme of: Bravery
- Be under 1,500 words and may be written in English or Spanish
- Be original, free of copyright restrictions and AI, and previously unpublished
- Be appropriate for a wide audience and suitable for all ages
- Be typed or clearly legible
- Include the title and page number on each page
Submissions must:
- Be accompanied by an entry form
- Be limited to one per person
- Be submitted by November 30, 2026. No late entries will be accepted.
Submit your entry in person (non-returnable) at any APLD Children’s Desk or submit the form below.
Entries that do not meet the above guidelines may be disqualified from judging. Winners announced Friday, December 18, 2026.