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The Norfolk County Public Library is once again inviting local writers of all ages to showcase their creativity through the 2026 Norfolk Literary Prize, a competition that welcomes original poetry and short stories from across the community.
The annual contest, formerly known as Write for Fun, has grown into a respected literary competition that recognizes writers in children, youth and adult categories.
Marketing and Communications Coordinator Belinda Smith said the contest is open to a wide range of writing styles and subjects.
Entries can be either poetry or short stories of up to 3,000 words. Writers may submit up to two entries in each category, and all judging is done anonymously by qualified volunteer judges.
Smith said the contest is about much more than winning a prize.
Every submission also receives written feedback from judges, giving participants helpful advice to strengthen their writing, win or lose.
Winning entries are published each year in a special anthology available through the library, allowing the community to celebrate local literary talent.
To enter, participants must live in Norfolk County, have an active Norfolk County Public Library card.
Smith also reminded entrants not to include their names on their manuscripts to preserve the blind judging process.
Complete contest rules and online entry information are available on the Norfolk County Public Library website. Entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026.
Written by Jeremy Hall
