The 2023 Writing Contest has ended:

Thank you everyone for your wonderful short stories and poems! We had a record number of submissions this year, 247!

The Teen Advisory Board has chosen the winners. If you would like to read the winning selections, they are posted below.

Everyone did a fantastic job, and all entries are included in a book that is in the Round Rock Public Library’s Local Author collection. The book is available for checkout with your library card. Please contact the youth reference desk with any questions, 512-218-7002.

Writing Contest:

Every year, the Round Rock Public Library accepts entries to the Young Author Writing Contest.

Young authors may submit an original fiction short story or poem.  Submitted entries will be judged by the Teen Advisory Board.

First, second, and third-place winners will receive a Barnes and Noble gift card. All submissions will be published in a book that will become part of the Round Rock Public Library’s local author collection for children.

Writing Contest Prizes:

• The writers of the top three stories or poems will receive: 2024 Prize TBA.
• First, second, and third-place winner will be chosen from two age categories: Tween (ages 8-12) and Teen (ages 13-18)
• All short story/poetry entries will be turned into a book that will become part of the Round Rock Public Library’s local author collection for children.

Contest Guidelines:

• Writers may enter one original short story or poem.
• There are two age categories: ages 8-12 and 13-18.
• Participants with a current Round Rock Public Library card are eligible. Participants who do not have a Round Rock Public Library card must reside in Travis or Williamson counties.
• The short story or poem can only be a maximum of 2000 words. There is no required minimum word count or story length. Please do not send pictures or graphics with your story or poem.  We are not able to include them in the book.
• Previously published works will not be accepted.
• Entries must be received before 9:00 pm on the last day of the contest.
• Short stories/poems must be submitted through the contest’s online form. The form will be available on this webpage starting (2024 date TBA). Mailed, emailed, and/or handwritten entries will not be accepted.
• Submissions must include the writer’s name, parent or guardian’s name, age, e-mail address, phone number, and the story or poem title.
• Entries submitted that do not meet the contest guidelines will be disqualified.