All MCPL Locations: Creative Writing Contest

Calling all storytellers! Whether you’re a seasoned writer or have an idea that’s ready to be put on paper, this is your chance to shine. Join us for an exciting creative writing contest where your words take center stage. Craft a short story, a vivid poem, or a captivating piece of fiction. With exciting prizes for each age group and a chance to see your work in the spotlight, this is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and share your voice!

The contest will begin on Saturday, June 14, 2025 and the deadline for submission will be Monday, July 14, 2025. There will be two separate age groups: Teen (ages 13-18) and Adult (ages 19+.)

Submissions should be:

• An original, unpublished piece of written work
• Suitable and appropriate for a general audience
• Not exceeding a word count of 5,000
• Contain no identifying names within the story or on its pages, including author’s name

Submitting your work:

• Submit your work to the email address: contest@mcpl.us with the subject heading: “Creative Writing Contest 2025 – ‘Your Age Group’.”
• Include your full name in the email (Again, make sure to not include your name anywhere in the story itself. We want judges to be able to read the stories anonymously.)

There will be separate winners for each age group, Teen and Adult. First place winners will receive some library swag, a gift card, and the chance to participate in an author reading & recognition ceremony during the 2025 Central Wisconsin Book Festival the last weekend of September. Second & Third places will be also be recognized and receive prizes. Later to follow, all winning stories will be illustrated by local artists! Applicants must be able to receive their prize in person. Any submissions that fail to meet the above requirements will not be considered for the contest. 

For more information, call 715-261-7230.