Teen Short Story Writing Contest

Calling all teen writers and authors! This summer, the Athol Public Library is hosting a writing contest just for you. Teens, ages 12-18, are invited to compose a short story around the theme "level up at the library." The winner will be awarded a $30 Walmart gift card that has been generously provided by the Friends of the Library.

Entry Rules:

• Open to ages 12-18.
• Theme: Level Up at the Library
• Entries must be submitted by email as a PDF or Word document to eboughton@cwmars.org, with name, town, telephone number, and title of the story in the body of the email.
• One entry per person.
• Stories must be original and written by the teen submitting them.
• Entries will be judged on creativity, originality, use of theme, and writing style.
• Stories must not exceed 1500 words.
• All entries become property of the Athol Public Library and may be posted to the library’s website, social media, and within the library.
• Entries must be submitted by midnight on August 10, 2025.

Not sure where to go with the theme? Consider how libraries aren't just a space for learning, but also a space for fun! You can read books, play games, work on puzzles, take a class, and so much more. All the while you'll gain knowledge, skills, friendship, and so much more. The more you improve the more you level up!