2026 Library Creative Writing Contest
Enter the 2026 JBPHH Library Annual Creative Writing Contest
Short Story & Poem Divisions
Mar 1–28: submissions accepted
Mar 30–Apr 4: triple-blind judging
Apr 10: winners announced on the JBPHH Library Facebook group
Age Categories
Children: ages 8–10
Tweens: ages 11–13
Teens: ages 14–17
Adults: ages 18+
Guidelines
- Participants may submit one short story and one poem. Entries must be original, unpublished works.
- Short stories and poems must be typed and double-spaced on an 8 ½” x 11” document, font size 12. There is a 12-page max limit.
- Entries must be Word documents only. Other formats will not be considered.
- Only title and page numbers (not entrant’s name) may appear on poem submissions.
- Entrants must be registered patrons of the JBPHH Library.
How to Submit Your Entry
- Email your story and/or poem and the completed entry form to JBPHHLibrary@us.navy.mil (No in-person submissions, please!) For the email Subject Line, please write JBPHH Library Creative Writing 2026 - Poetry or Short Story Entry.
- Parents or guardians of entrants under 18 are requested to submit their children’s completed entries and forms.
- Entry forms are available at the Library, or they can be downloaded from this page or from the JBPHH Library Facebook group.
Prizes
Gift cards will be awarded in all divisions and age categories.
- 1st place: $30
- 2nd place: $20
- 3rd place: $10
Judging
Entries are judged based on content, originality, language usage, and quality of expression. Each submission will be reviewed by three judges. Time permitting, winners will be notified by phone prior to public announcement.
