Write Stuff Contest

Calling all kids and teens in grades 3-12 with a talent for creative writing! The library is holding a contest for all writers. There will be prizes for the winners.

Complete Entry Form

How to enter: 

  1. Write a story utilizing this theme: Pick an object in your room and make it come to life.
  2. Complete the entry form with your original story attached between March 1 and March 31, 2026.
  3. Provide your first name, last initial, grade, age, school, library card number, library branch, parent/guardian name, parent/guardian phone, and parent/guardian email address.

 

Official Rules and Guidelines

  • Students in grades 3-12 are encouraged to enter.
  • Entrant or entrant’s parent/guardian must have a St. Louis County Library card.
  • Limit one submission per person.
  • Limit one author per submission. No collaborations.
  • Your story must utilize this theme: Pick an object in your room and make it come to life.
  • Entries that do not follow the above theme will not be accepted.
  • Entries can be funny, serious, etc. Judging will be based on originality, story flow, continuity and mechanical elements (grammar, punctuation, spelling).
  • Your story must be between 250-500 words for grades 3-5, 250-750 words for grades 6-8, and between 500-1000 words for grades 9-12 (title does not count against word count).
  • Please attach entry as a “.docx” or ".rtf” file.
  • Each entry must be typed and double-spaced (no fancy fonts please).
  • Do not write your name or place any other identifying marks on the story pages.
  • Entries must be received between March 1 and March 31, 2026.
  • Winners will be chosen in three categories: Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8, and Grades 9-12.
  • Winners will be notified by Thursday, April 23, 2026.
  • Winning entries will not be posted publicly, but all participants will be able to view the winning entries at the end of the judging period.
  • Judges’ decisions are final.
  • Judges are unable to offer feedback on submissions.
  • Visa gift cards will be given for 1st ($50) and 2nd ($25) place in each category.