Yearly Contests FAQs

  • Graphic Novel Making Contest

    San José Public Library 2025 Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    Guidelines in Spanish Guidelines in Vietnamese

    When is the Contest: June 1 - July 31, 2025.

    Submission Deadlines: Entries and registration forms must be submitted by Thursday, July 31, 2025.

    Who Can Enter:

    • All Ages: Submissions will be categorized into 5 different age groups: 0-7, 8-9, 10-12, 13-17, 18+.
    • Located in California: This contest is only open to California Residents.
    • Amateur Authors/Illustrators Only: Contest is limited to amateur authors and illustrators only.

    How to Enter:

    • Submitting Your Work:           
      • Paper Entries: Submit at a SJPL location, no later than end of business day on July 31, 2025.
      • Digital Entries: Submit on our website or email to graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org as a PNG, JPG, or PDF attachment. Please see our website for more details.
    • Doublecheck Your Entry: Check all names, graphic novel titles, contact info, grammar, and spelling!
    • Limit 1 Entry: There is a limit of one entry per contestant or co-authored group.

    Content Requirements:

    • Original Work Only: Each submission must be the creative and original work of the submitting author/illustrator.
    • Maximum Length: 8 pages, including cover page.
    • Black and White: Must have black-and-white or gray scale drawings.
    • Paper Size & Binding: Use letter-size paper (8.5x11”). Please paper clip paper entries together.
    • Multiple Authors or Illustrators: Any submissions with more than one author/illustrator will be considered a single entry judged under the age category of the oldest author/illustrator listed and share awarded prizes.
    • No AI or Copyrighted Material: Artificial intelligence (AI) content will not be considered. Use of computer-generated images (via A.I. tools or clip art) or copyrighted material will be deemed ineligible.
    • Digital Artwork: Digital Illustrations are allowed as long as they are original artwork.
    • World Languages Accepted: Other languages are accepted, please see our FAQ for more information. 
    • Audience Level: We will not accept entries with explicit language or mature content.
    • Limited Assistance: Assistance should be limited to critiquing, feedback, proofreading, and spell checking.
    • Photocopy Recommended: Consider submitting a photocopy or digital scan that is an accurate reflection of the original work. SJPL cannot guarantee the return of paper submissions.

    How Scoring Works: Entries will be judged using a rubric scale. The detailed judging criteria and rubric used for this contest is available on our website.

    Contest Prizes and Winners:

    • 1st, 2nd, 3rd: Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners for each age category.            
      • Honorable Mentions: Honorable mentions may be selected in each age group.
    • Gift Cards: Any cash prizes will be awarded as gift cards.

    Winner Notification & Announcements:

    • Attend the Award Ceremony: Winners will be announced during an In-Person Award Ceremony.
    • Where to Pick Up Prizes: Prizes will be available for pickup at the In-Person Award Ceremony.

    Publication:

    • Publishing Winners: All eligible works will made available in SJPL’s teen collection.
    • Reproduction & Reuse: San José Public Library reserves the right to reproduce your work. You can reuse all your work after the contest.

    For more information, including FAQ’s and the judging criteria, please visit http://www.sjpl.org/graphicnovels.

    SJPL staff may not enter submissions for the General Public contest.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest

    Who Can Enter: 

    • All Ages: Submissions will be categorized into 5 different age groups: 0-7, 8-9, 10-12, 13-17, 18+
    • Located in California: This contest is only open to California Residents.
    • Amateur Authors/Illustrators Only: Contest is limited to amateur authors and illustrators only.
    • Audience Level: We will not accept entries with explicit language or mature content.

    SJPL staff may not enter submissions for the General Public contest.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    Graphic Novel Length:

    • Maximum Length: 8 pages, including cover page.
    • Black and White: Must have black-and-white or gray scale drawings.
    • Single-Sided: Library staff will scan your entry on your behalf and images can bleed through. To ensure the quality of your submission, do not use both sides of paper to create your comic or graphic novel. 
    • Paper Size & Binding: Use letter-size paper (8.5x11”). Please paper clip paper entries together.
    • Cover Page: A cover page counts towards your 8 pages. The rest of your comic or graphic novel can be only 7 additional pages. 
    • Back Page: A back page counts towards your 8 pages. The rest of your comic or graphic novel can be only 7 additional pages. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    No.

    • Paper Size & Binding: Use letter-size paper (8.5x11”). Please paper clip paper entries together.
    • Maximum Length: 8 pages, including cover page.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    No.

    Please paper clip paper entries together.

    Please do not fold your comic into a book. We discourage the use of staples or other bindings that will create permanent stress or damage the pages of a physical submission. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    No.

    Just know that if your entry wins first, second, or third place in your age group, it will be printed in our winner booklet. The booklet is portrait-oriented. 

    Landscape-oriented comics and graphic novels are accepted and eligible for award. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes! We can accept entries in any language.

    The Contest committee will do their best to get the entry translated into English for our judges. If we are unable to translate your entry, we will contact you and request a translation from you.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    No, Judges base their ratings on our rubric. However, creators of all ages should only receive assistance with critiques, feedback, proofreading, and spell checking.

    The judges of the younger age groups of the contest understand that writing, spelling, and grammar are all journeys that are experienced differently. Having spelling errors, grammar issues, and/or illegible handwriting  are standard and understandable for entries to this contest, especially in the 0-12 age groups. While we encourage parental support of younger creators, creators (of all age groups) should have limited assistance when it comes to the graphic novel they produce. 

    If a parent/caregiver feels their child's story will be negatively impacted by the child's writing, spelling, and/or grammar, we recommend offering to write out what your child wants to write on a separate sheet of paper, then allow your child to copy that text into their comic. Ultimately the creator's handwriting and text should be on the final piece submitted as an entry to the contest, not a parent's or caregiver's.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    Sit tight! If you have not received an email confirmation by the end of the day on August 4th, please email us immediately (graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org).

    • All contestants should get an email stating their entry has been received 5-10 days after making their submission, regardless of whether their entry was submitted online, via email or in person.  
    • Contestants who submit entries on the final day of the contest, July 31, should receive a confirmation email no later than August 4th.
      • If you have not received an email confirmation by the end of the day on August 4th, please email us immediately (graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org).  
        • If we don't hear from you, we cannot guarantee your entry will be judged or considered for participation.  

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    If you have any questions regarding the Graphic Novel Making Contest, please feel free to leave a comment in your preferred language at the bottom of this blog post or send an email to graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org. A member of the Graphic Novel Making Contest Committee will work with a staff translator to respond as quickly as we can. Thank you for your interest!

    Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre el Concurso de Creación de Novelas Gráficas, no dude en dejar un comentario en su idioma preferido en la parte inferior de este blog o enviar un correo electrónico a graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org. Un miembro del Comité del Concurso de Novelas Gráficas trabajará con un traductor de personal de la biblioteca para responder lo más rápido posible. ¡Gracias por su interés!

    Nếu quý vị có bất kỳ câu hỏi nào liên quan đến Cuộc Thi Vẽ Truyện Tranh năm, xin vui lòng để lại câu hỏi của bạn bằng ngôn ngữ bạn thích ở cuối bài viết này hoặc gửi email tới địa chỉ graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org. Thành viên của Ủy ban Cuộc Thi Vẽ Truyện Tranh sẽ làm việc với một nhân viên biên dịch để phản hồi nhanh nhất có thể. Cám ơn sự quan tâm của quý vị!

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    The Graphic Novel Making Contest Awards Ceremony is our way of thanking you for all of the hard work you put into creating an entry. We invite you, your family, and friends to attend with you!

    Award Ceremony Details:

    More information to come!

    Here is a timeline for the Awards Ceremony: 

    • The Ceremony venue will open one hour before the start of the ceremony. 
    • The Ceremony is from 2 - 4 PM. 
    • When you arrive, we encourage you to check-in by picking up your participation envelope.       
      • All eligible participants will receive an envelope including their participation certificate and added goodies.
      • Eligible participants will be encouraged to pick out a graphic novel from the Giveaway Table. 
    • We regularly have fun activities from 1-2PM as well as snacks, meet & greet with professional cosplayers, and more. You are also welcome to find a seat in the main room. 
    • At 2PM, the Ceremony will begin with introductions from our emcee.       
      • Each age group will be announced starting from Adult and ending with our 0-7 age group.
      • Between age group announcements will be presentations by our featured guest speakers. 
    • As each winner is announced, they will be encouraged to come on stage to receive their winner certificate, take a photo with our emcee, and then receive their prizes off stage.       
      • The authors of a winning co-authored entry should come up to the stage together if present. 
    • At the end of the Ceremony, there may be announcements about future graphic novel activities happening through San José Public Library. 
    • From 4 - 4:30 PM, the area will be open for guest speakers to sign copies of their work, do meet and greet, and final pictures. 
    • At 4:30 PM, we ask participants to start leaving the area so staff can clean up. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Prizes are based on age group and can vary year to year.

    Please see our main page for more details on this year’s specific prizes. 

    All winners in the Children 0-7, Children 8-9, Pre-Teen 10-12, and Teen 13-17 age groups will require a guardian present to sign the Gift Card Form. 

    All winners, first through third and honorable mentions, in all age groups, will receive a gift card to a local comic shop, certificate, age-appropriate graphic novels, comics, and books, and the participation gifts all eligible participants receive. 

    Prizes given year to year by age group: 

    • Children 0-7:      
      • All winners receive art bundles from Sakura of America 
    • Children 8-9:      
      • All winners receive art bundles from Sakura of America 
    • Pre-Teens 10-12:      
      • All winners receive art bundles from Sakura of America 
    • Teens 13-17:     
      • First Place: $100 in Gift Cards
      • Second Place: $75 in Gift Cards
      • Third Place: $50 in Gift Cards
      • Honorable mentions receive art bundles from Sakura of America 
    • Adults 18+:     
      • First Place: $100 in Gift Cards
      • Second Place: $75 in Gift Cards
      • Third Place: $50 in Gift Cards
      • Honorable mentions receive art bundles from Sakura of America 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    Attend the Graphic Novel Making Contest Award Ceremony!

    The best way to know if you’ve won is to attend the in-person Graphic Novel Making Contest Awards Ceremony. At the Awards Ceremony winners and honorable mentions will be announced in each age category. We will invite winners to come on stage to receive their certificate and prizes. 

    If you are unable to attend the Awards Ceremony in-person, we will email you the following week to figure out which branch location is best for you to claim your prize. 

    Please see our main page for more details about the Awards Ceremony location. 

    We will not notify anyone prior to the Awards Ceremony about whether they won or not. 

    All eligible participants in the contest will receive a participation gift.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    There are three ways to submit your entry: 

    • Digitally through the Entry Form    
      • Go to this website. 
      • Complete each line of the form. 
      • When instructed, upload your Graphic Novel Making Contest Entry.   
        • You do not need to upload a copy of the completed Entry Form. 
        • If your graphic novel entry has multiple file pages, please upload them in read order and ensure the files you upload are titled with the correct read order page number. 
      • You should receive a response within 7 business days. If you do not receive a response, please email graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org with your name, age, and the title of your entry. If you have a co-authored entry, include the names and ages of all authors/illustrators. 
    • Digitally through Email   
      • Draft an email to graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org   
        • If your entry is co-authored, please include the emails of each co-author in your email. 
      • Add the subject: GNMC Submission 
      • Include a message with your full name, pen name if you choose to use one, your age, and title of your entry.   
        • If your entry is co-authored, please include all author’s names and ages. 
      • Attach the following:   
        • A completed copy of the Graphic Novel Making Contest Entry Form. This can be a scanned copy, completed by hand, or a digitally completed entry. 
        • A digital copy of your Graphic Novel Making Contest Entry   
          • This can be large file with all of the pages, in read order OR 
          • Individual files of each page and titled with the correct read order page numbers. (This should only be done if your files are too large to email as one large file) 
        • Send your email! 
        • You should receive a response within 7 business days. If you do not receive a response, please send another email inquiring on your previous email. 
    • Paper entry and In-Person   
      • Complete the Graphic Novel Making Contest Entry Form at home or, when you arrive at your local San José Public Library branch, request an Entry Form. 
      • When you arrive at your local San José Public Library branch, inform the staff member at the Information Desk that you have an entry you would like to submit. 
      • Hand them your entry and completed Entry Form and tell them to have it routed to King Library, Youth Services, Jessica Lundin. 
      • You should receive a response within 10 business days. If you do not receive a response, please email graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org with your name, age, title of your entry, and the branch you submitted your entry at. If you have a co-authored entry, include the names and ages of all authors/illustrators. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    There are several ways to digitize your entry.  

    If you’re submitting your entry by email, please scan your Entry Form as a separate page and file from your entry. Your Entry Form and Comic should not be the same file. 

    • Use a scanner - Recommended    
      • Save as a PDF, or PNG or JPG at 300dpi or higher. 
      • Each page should be scanned, in reading order, in reading orientation, and in the same file. 
      • Use the scanner preview to ensure your pages are in the correct order. 
      • If your file is too large for any reason, you may submit each page of your graphic novel individually, but be very sure to name each page file correctly so that we can combine the file for you. 
      • Check the preview of each scan to ensure it is the best representation of your graphic novel before saving. Crop out areas that aren’t apart of your graphic novel. 
      • Local postal and printing stores offer scanning at a modest price. 
    • Using a smart phone – Results may vary    
      • Scan/photograph your pages by holding your phone/camera directly above your submission to prevent distortion.  
      • Make sure the entire page is in the photo. Crop out anything that isn’t the page of your comic to the best of your ability (some apps do this automatically).  
      • Make sure you are in a well-lit area and there is no shadow of your phone/hand in the image. If you are having difficulty with this, try taking photos during the day and placing your pages on a table in front of a window. It is easier to photograph in natural light than artificial light.

    Again, we highly recommend previewing and assessing the quality of scans before submitting entries. Scan quality can vary on the quality of the camera, app, filters, etc. Please make sure that you are satisfied with the quality of your submission and that it is the best representation of your work.

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes. 

    Your entry can be a sequel or prequel to a previous entry, BUT, please keep these things in mind: Your entry must be a complete story. Anyone reading your entry should not need to have read the previous entry for the current one to make sense.  

    In short, you can re-use characters, settings, and world building for a new entry, as long as the plot and story are different from any previous entries. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    No.

    Although you may have made changes to the comic, unless it is distinctly different, it should not be submitted to the contest again.  

    If a graphic novel has been scored by our judges in a previous year, it should never be submitted again to an SJPL contest.

    If the current entry is a variation of a previously submitted graphic novel, such as the same art with different word bubbles or a comic reusing/reorganizing individual panels, it should not be submitted. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    All eligible entries that are read by our judges will receive a numerical score created using the Judging Rubric. Each judge scores each entry using the Judging Rubric, which is out of 50 points. Then all of the scores from each judge are added up to form a total score. Although the total score is considered during deliberations, it is not necessarily the only aspect considered by the judges. 

    We receive hundreds of amazing submissions each year. We understand that this process of art and storytelling can be very personal for those submitting to this contest. We know this process, and the feedback you may receive, can be difficult. But our biggest hope is that the feedback encourages you improve your creativity, expand your skills, and grow as a creator.  We want all our contestants to continue to submit entries in the years to come. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

    Judges refer to the Judging Criteria Guide and Rubric.

    Every year, the Contest Committee selects library staff and community members to judge entries. Judges refer to the Judging Criteria Guide and Rubric to help determine the quality of submissions. Judges then discuss the merits of the best submissions within their specific age group and award first, second, third, and possible honorable mention(s). Entries that do not follow the Guidelines are ineligible for award. Each year, on average, half of our judges are volunteers and use their own time to read, score, leave feedback, and take time to select the winners. 

    How many judges will judge each submission? 

    Entries will be judged by a panel of judges made up of library staff, comic industry professionals, and art professionals. Each age category is judged by a minimum of 3 judges. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Nope! Your comic is not required to have text.

    There are many great comics that utilize little to no text. You can get full points in the text criteria if your story is clear without text, as this is a harder task to achieve. However, if your story is confusing or unclear, and the judges feel that text would have been helpful to understand what is going on, you will receive fewer points in that category. A good way to test this is to have someone who doesn’t know anything about your story read your comic, then ask them if they were able to understand the story clearly in one try. If there is any confusion, or if they had to re-read any portions to understand, you may want to add text or redraw sections that were confusing to your reader. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes, right-to-left reading orientation is acceptable.

    We recommend including a note at the beginning of your graphic novel or other clear instructions within your comic informing readers that your submission should be read from right-to-left rather than left-to-right. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes, you are able to use correction methods to cover up mistakes or as an intentional use of white.

    As long as your submission can still lay flat for scanning and fits within the Submission Guidelines your submission will still be eligible. 

    If submitting a scanned version of a paper graphic novel, please ensure the scanned version of your graphic novel is the best representation of your graphic novel that you can provide. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes, but you must provide both your legal name and pseudonym/pen name on the Entry Form as these are legal documents.

    Without this information, we may not be able to match your Entry Form to your entry. If you have privacy concerns about your legal name being published on our website and/or in the winner's collection, please contact us at graphicnovels@sjlibrary.org immediately so we can accommodate you. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Please do!

    You may enter the Graphic Novel Making Contest and then publish your entry at a later date. Once your work is published though, you are no longer considered an amateur and are not eligible for later contests. 

    Do we still own our characters once we submit our entry? 

    Yes, all artists and authors receive credit for their work and still own their characters once their entry is submitted. However, by entering the Contest, artists and/or authors permit San José Public Library to display and reproduce their submission at any time.  

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    An amateur author/illustrator is someone who has never been paid for their work professionally.

    If you are paid to illustrate or be a storyteller, you are not considered an amateur creator. 

    Can I submit my recently published graphic novel? 

    The contest is intended for amateur creators. Unfortunately, if your comic has found a publisher, you are no longer considered an amateur creator. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    Yes! Some basic things are: 

    If I submit a paper entry, why does it need to be digitized? 

    Because judging is done virtually, we need to provide digitized versions of every entry to the judges. We also have to submit digitized versions of the first through third place entries for the Winner Booklet to be printed. For these two reasons, we do not recommend submitting entries just in pencil. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    When submitting the entry by email or a paper entry in-person, an Entry Form must be provided for EACH individual who worked on the creation of the graphic novel. 

    We understand that the magic of storytelling sometimes takes two, or three or more. When submitting a co-authored entry, be sure to list all individuals involved with the creation of the graphic novel.  

    When selecting the age group for the entry, use the age of the oldest individual who worked on the creation of the graphic novel. 

    Example: Joan and Sally create an entry together. Joan is 19 and Sally is 17. Because Joan is 19 and the oldest, Joan and Sally's entry will be entered into the Adult Category (for those 18 and over). 

    Prizes, whether award or participation, that go to entries with two or more authors/creators, will need to be shared by the co-author/creators of that entry. Graphic Novel Making Contest staff are not responsible for splitting gift cards or other prizes associated with an entry among co-author/creators. This must be worked out between the co-authors/creators of the entry. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

    This is due to printing costs and to ensure a fair judging process. 

    Due to printing costs when we create the Winner Booklet for first through third place winners in each age group, we can only print in black, white, and gray scale. Converting color entries to black, white, and gray scale can greatly affect the quality of the graphic novel or comic. Therefore, only black, white, and gray scale entries are eligible for award. This restriction also makes the judging process fairer as everyone is held to this standard. 

    Related Pages: Graphic Novel Making Contest, Graphic Novel Making Contest Guidelines

     

  • Spring Into Poetry

    When is the Contest: April 1 - 30, 2025.

    Submission Deadlines: Entries and registration forms must be received by 11:59:59PM on April 30, 2025.

    How to Enter: 

    • Online: Complete the registration and submission form online
    • In Person: Submit your poem and complete a paper entry form at any SJPL location
    • Doublecheck Your Entry: Please ensure all names, poem title, and contact info are accurate.
    • Limit 1 Entry: Only one submission/entry per person/contestant.

    Who Can Enter: 

    • All Ages: Contest is open to writers of all ages. Submissions will be categorized into 4 different age groups: 0-9, 10-12, 13-17, 18+.
    • Amateur Authors Only: Contest is limited to amateur authors only.
    • No SJPL Staff in General Public Contest: San José Public Library staff may not enter submissions for the General Public contest. Library staff may enter into the staff-only contest.

    Content Requirements: 

    • Original Work Only: Submitted work must be a fully original work. Entries must not have been previously published, self-published, published on a website or made public on social media, broadcast, or featured among the winners in another competition.
    • Located in California: This contest is only open to California Residents
    • No AI: Submissions created with artificial intelligence (AI) will not be considered.
    • World Languages Accepted: Authors may submit entries in languages other than English but must also provide an English translation. Judges will score the entry based on the English translation. 
    • Audience Level: Submitted work must be for general audiences. We will not accept entries with explicit language or mature content. 
    • Length Limit: 4,500 characters max, including spaces, punctuation, and special characters.
    • Proofread: Check for spelling or grammar errors.
    • Format: Text only. Images or drawings will not be considered.

    How Scoring Works: 

    All submissions will be judged according to the following rubric and scoring criteria. The judges read all the entries; their decision is final. Neither the judges nor San José Public Library staff will enter into any correspondence regarding appealing scores.  
     
    Contest Prizes and Winners
    • 1st, 2nd, 3rd: Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners for each age category.
    • Gift Cards: Any cash prizes will be awarded as gift cards.
    • Winner Notification & Announcements:   
      • Prizewinners will be notified by email or phone (information used from Contest Entry Form) of their prize status.
      • Prizewinners will be announced on San José Public Library’s website.
    • Where to Pick Up Prizes: Prizes will be available for pickup at the winner’s preferred SJPL location.  

    Publication: 

    • Publishing Winners: Winning entries and selected works will be published in San José Public Library’s online collection in Short Edition and BiblioBoard.
    • Reproduction & Reuse: San José Public Library reserves the right to reproduce your work. You can reuse all your work after the contest.  

    Related Page: Spring Into Poetry

     

    When Looking At.... Ask Yourself...
    Poetic Form/Free Verse Conventions Does the poem take on a poetic form (limerick, sonnet, haiku, etc.) or is
    it free verse? If the poem has a form, how well does the submission
    adhere to that form? If the poem is free verse, does the writing flow
    smoothly or rhythmically, or seem choppy? Where are the stanza
    breaks, and do they interrupt or emphasize ideas?
    Ideas/Originality Does this poem copy a tired style (with no unique twist) or does it try
    something new? Is the subject matter of the poem unique or
    interesting? Does the poem have a clear meaning, theme, or story?
    Word Choice/Usage Does the vocabulary used match the intended theme/story of the
    poem? Do the words used help create an appropriate emotional
    response in the reader (does the poem create mood)? Does the poem
    sound natural/human, or flat/robotic? Do you feel there is a discernible
    style to the poet’s writing?
    Significance/Coherence What is the goal/aim of this poem (ie Does it tell a story? Is it trying to
    recreate an emotion for the reader? Is it explaining/expressing
    someone’s thoughts?)? Does the poem meet it’s goal? Does the poem
    help the reader understand something deeper, feel something for
    themselves, or tell a complete story? Do the stanzas and ideas come
    together as a complete, coherent work?
    Spelling/Punctuation How well was the piece proofread? Do the punctuation and spelling
    errors, if present, affect the readability of the poem?
     
     

     

    Points Poetic Form / Free Verse Conventions Ideas / Originality Poetic Devices Word Choice / Usage Significance / Coherence Spelling / Punctuation 
    1 - Novice - Has no poetic form,
    does not flow as free
    verse (is prose)
    - Stanza breaks highly
    random or missing
    - Line breaks disrupt
    rhythm/flow    		 - Unoriginal, seems like
    retelling or cliché (roses are
    red…)
    - No discernible
    meaning/theme/story to
    poem    		 - Does not utilize poetic devices - Word choice
    inappropriate/does not
    support theme/mood/story of
    poem
    - Poet voice/tone
    inappropriate or absent    		 - Work is unrelatable
    /unempathetic/incoherent
    - Unsuccessful in aim/goal of
    the poem    		 - Punctuation and/or
    spelling errors are
    frequent enough to
    affect coherency of
    text
    2 - Student - Attempted poetic
    form, rough free verse
    - Stanza breaks seem
    random
    - Developing
    rhythm/flow, but still
    a bit awkward    		 - Mostly basic detail or
    seems contrived
    - Vague/unclear
    meaning/theme/story to
    poem    		 - Minimal/unnatural/does not
    understand use of poetic devices
    -Utilizes one or two poetic devices    		 - Some words support
    theme/mood/story of poem,
    but overall no real
    development/ineffective
    - Poet voice/tone somewhat
    appropriate but
    underdeveloped or doesn’t
    quite agree with theme    		 - Work contains attempts at
    relatability/empathy, but not
    cohesive as a whole
    - Somewhat successful in
    aim/goal of the poem, and
    aim/goal lacks
    depth/significance    		 - Arbitrary
    punctuation and
    major spelling errors
    3 – Apprentice - Recognizable poetic
    form with some
    liberties of form,
    rough free verse with
    some intentional line
    breaks that support
    rhythm
    - Stanza breaks mostly
    deliberate/support
    rhythm of poem    		 - Some basic detail,
    attempted
    creativity/originality
    - Attempted
    meaning/theme/story to
    poem, unclear execution    		 - Mix of natural and unnatural use
    of poetic devices
    - Uses a few different poetic devices    		 - Appropriate word choice to
    support theme/mood/story of
    poem, beginnings of
    mood/atmosphere
    - Poet voice/tone
    appropriate/supports theme    		 - Work is
    relatable/somewhat
    empathetic, work comes
    together as a whole
    - Successful in aim/goal of
    poem, yet aim/goal lacks
    depth/significance    		 - Some punctuation
    and some spelling
    errors
    4 - Protégé - Recognizable poetic
    form with few
    liberties of form,
    mostly
    flowing/natural free
    verse
    - Mostly intentional
    stanza breaks,
    sometimes apply
    emphasis/support
    rhythm    		 - Fairly creative/original
    - Discernible
    meaning/theme/story of
    poem, still developing     		 - Mostly natural and clear
    understanding use of poetic devices
    - Uses a small variety of poetic
    devices    		 - Appropriate word choice to
    support theme/mood/story of
    poem, clear
    mood/atmosphere to poem
    - Poet voice/tone is
    appropriate to theme and
    individual style is developing    		 - Work is
    relatable/empathetic, and
    comes together as a
    complete work
    - Successful in aim/goal of
    poem, attempts to add to or
    inspire deeper
    understanding of its subject    		 - Minor punctuation
    and spelling errors
    5 - Poet - Exemplary of poetic
    form, flowing/natural
    free verse
    - Stanza breaks
    intentional and create
    emphasis    		 - Highly creative/original
    - Clear
    meaning/theme/story to
    poem    		 - Natural and masterful use of
    poetic devices
    - Uses variety of poetic devices    		 - Exemplary word choice in
    support of theme/mood/story
    of poem, clear
    mood/atmosphere
    - Poet voice/tone
    complements theme and
    individual style is established    		 - Work is
    relatable/empathetic, and
    comes together as a
    complete work
    - Successful in aim/goal of
    poem, adds to or inspires
    deeper understanding of subject and/or is emotionally significant    		 - No punctuation or
    spelling errors
     
     

    Submission Scorecard

    Facet Points
    Poetic Form/Free Verse Conventions /5
    Ideas/Content/Originality /5
    Poetic Techniques /5
    Word Choice/Usage /5
    Scope/Significance/Coherence /5
    Spelling/Punctuation /5
    Total /30

    Related Page: Spring Into Poetry

  • Summer Learning

    Yes ... to claim a participation prize and be eligible for special prize drawings, as well as the grand prize drawing, you must log ALL reading on your Beanstack account via the web site or app. Paper logs are available, but only as a fun option. Any reading recorded via the paper log also should be recorded via your Beanstack account.   

    Related Page: Summer Learning

    No, but a SJPL card is always encouraged to enjoy our wide collection of materials. To participate in Summer Learning, you only need a Beanstack account.

    Related Page: Summer Learning

    Yes! All Bay Area residents can participate in our Summer Learning program. All participation giveaways and grand prizes must be claimed in person. 

    Related Page: Summer Learning

    Starting June 1st, all youth ages 0-18 can pick up one free book prize upon sign up AND another free book prize upon (8 hour/8 book) program completion. Adults can claim fun, free giveaway prizes for sign up and completion too. Participation giveaway prizes can be claimed at any SJPL location during open hours.  

    Related Page: Summer Learning

    Every participant will receive one grand prize drawing entry for every 8 hours or 8 books that they read (up to 64 hours/books). The more you read, the entries you earn. If you are a grand prize winner, you’ll be contacted by SJPL staff at the conclusion of the Summer Learning program.

    Related Page: Summer Learning

  • Fall Into Fiction

    When is the Contest: September 1 – 30, 2024.  
     
    Submission Deadline: Entries and registration forms must be received by 11:59:59PM on September 30, 2024.
     
    How to Enter:
     
    • Online or Paper Entry Form: Complete the online Contest Entry Form, or get and complete a paper entry from at any SJPL location.
    • Submitting Your Work    
      • Authors who are 13+: For entries written by those age 13+, entries may be submitted online via Short Edition Portal.
      • Authors who are under 13: For entries written by those under age 13, you must submit your entry via email to shortstories@sjlibrary.org as an attached Word Document, linked Google Doc, or pasted into the body of an email.
    • Doublecheck Your Entry: Please ensure all names, poem title, and contact info are accurate.
    • Limit 1 Entry:  Only one submission/entry per person/contestant.
    Who Can Enter:
     
    • All Ages: Open to writers of all ages. Submissions will be categorized into 4 different age groups: 0-9, 10-12, 13-17, 18+.
    • Amateur Authors Only: Contest is limited to amateur authors only.
    • No SJPL Staff in General Public Contest: San José Public Library staff may not enter submissions for the General Public contest. Library staff may enter into the staff-only contest.
    Content Requirements:
     
    • Original Work Only: Submitted work must be a fully original work. Entries must not have been previously published, self-published, published on a website or made public on social media, broadcast, or featured among the winners in another competition.
    • Located in California: This contest is only open to California Residents
    • No AI: Submissions created with artificial intelligence (AI) will not be considered.
    • World Languages Accepted: Authors may submit entries in languages other than English but must also provide an English translation. Judges will score the entry based on the English translation. 
    • Audience Level: Submitted work must be for general audiences. We will not accept entries with explicit language or mature content. 
    • Length Limit: 8,000 characters max, including spaces, punctuation, and special characters.
    • Proofread: Check for spelling or grammar errors.
    • Format: Text only. Images or drawings will not be considered.
    How Scoring Works
     
    All submissions will be judged according to the following rubric and scoring criteria. The judges read all the entries; their decision is final. Neither the judges nor San José Public Library staff will enter into any correspondence regarding appealing scores.  
     
    Contest Prizes and Winners
    • 1st, 2nd, 3rd: Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners for each age category.
    • Gift Cards: Any cash prizes will be awarded as gift cards.
    • Winner Notification & Announcements:   
    • Where to Pick Up Prizes: Prizes will be available for pickup at the winner’s preferred SJPL location.  
    Publication
    • Publishing Winners: Winning entries and selected works will be published in San José Public Library’s online collection in Short Edition and BiblioBoard.
    • Reproduction & Reuse: San José Public Library reserves the right to reproduce your work. You can reuse all your work after the contest.  

    Related Page: Fall into Fiction 

    Return to Fall into Fiction

    When Looking At.... Ask Yourself...
     
    Originality
    Is this a unique story? If this is a popular story type, is it well executed? Is it predictable or does it keep you guessing? Is the story impactful?
    Creative Expression
    Does the vocabulary used match the content/events/action of the story? Do you feel there is a discernible style to the author’s writing? Are literary devices used? Do the literary devices enhance the writing/is their use appropriate?
    Storytelling
    Is the story easy to follow? Is there a clear beginning, middle, and end? Is the pacing appropriate for the story? Does the story make sense? Is there some form of resolution? Do sentences exhibit precision and good word choice?
     
    Character
    Are the characters fully formed? Are they unique from each other? Do characters act in a way that is in accordance to their age/background? Do the characters have dimension?
    Setting
    Is the setting well established? Do characters fit well in the setting? Does the setting suit the characters, dialogue, and action?
    Spelling/Grammar
    Is the grammar and spelling correct? If the story includes dialogue, is it clearly written? Is it easily understood who is speaking? Are the language and word choices appropriate for the age group of the characters? How well was the piece proofread? Do the punctuation and spelling errors, if present, affect the readability of the story?
    Points
    Originality
     
    Creative Expression
    Storytelling
    Character
    Setting
    		 Spelling / Grammar
    1 - Novice
    • Writing feels like or is a retelling with little to no original thought/ideas
    • Doesn’t match contest theme
    • Writing lacks individual style/strong voice
    • Little to no literary devices/figurative and descriptive language
    • Telling vs showing (lots of summary)
    • Unorganized/confusing/lack of plot
    • Simple/fragmented sentences
    • Awkward or disjointed transitions
    • No tone/mood/atmosphere
    • Flat  character; character is a stereotype or lacks depths or contrasting facets
     
    • Story is not grounded in a setting or lacks setting description
    • Poor spelling and command of grammar/affects coherency of text
    2 - Student
     
    • Some original thoughts/ideas, but still largely predictable
    • Somewhat matches contest theme
    • Some style/voice but lacks development
    • Attempted literary devices/figurative and descriptive language
    • Somewhat logical but lacks development or clear direction
    • Awkward/cliché/generic transitions
    • Mostly simple, but some variety in sentence structure
    • Flat character; while not a stereotype, character lacks depth/no contrasting sides or flaws  
    • Some idea of a setting, but description is largely too sparse or irrelevant
    • Many spelling/grammatical errors but decipherable
    3 – Apprentice
    •  Original thoughts, somewhat predictable
    • Matches contest theme
    • Developing style/voice
    • Scattered/sparse use of literary devices/figurative and descriptive language
    • Somewhat logical, contains some direction but story incomplete
    • Cliché/generic transitions
    • Round character; character has one or two expressed facets/flaws/wants/needs/backstory
    • Some idea of setting, but descriptions are at times too sparse or long-winded/irrelevant/don’t engage senses beyond sight
    • Several spelling/grammatical errors
    4 - Protégé
    • Writing based on original/unique idea or theme executed in unique way
    • Matches contest theme
    • Developing style/voice
    • Includes literary devices/figurative and descriptive language throughout
    • Logical and clear, contains at least 3 of the following: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution
    • Some effective transitions
    • Demonstrates awareness of genre
    • Some variety in sentence structure
    • Round character; character has some depth, facets/ flaws/wants/needs, or backstory demonstrated in text
    • Somewhat relatable/real to reader
    • Story is grounded, descriptions are appropriate/relevant, engage some senses beyond sight
    •  Few spelling/grammatical errors
    5 - Author
    • Writing based on a unique idea or perspective; unique plot developments; unpredictable twists
    • Uniquely matches contest theme
    • Established and discernible style/voice
    • Elegant and masterful use of literary devices/figurative language/descriptions
    • Showing vs Telling (appropriate use of describing vs summary)
    • Well organized story with effective/smooth transitions
    • Contains all of the following:  exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution  
    • Tone that complements genre and elicits mood/atmosphere
    • Variety in sentences creating fluid and interesting prose
    • Round character; character has depth, many facets/flaws/wants/needs or backstory in text
    • Character seems real/relatable to reader, author demonstrates more complete understanding of character
    • Story is grounded in a clear setting/place with relevant, dynamic descriptions
    • Five senses are engaged by descriptions
    • No spelling/grammatical errors

     

    Submission Scorecard

    Facet Points
    Originality
    		 /5
    Creative Expression
    		 /5
    Storytelling
    		 /5
    Character
    		 /5
    Setting
    		 /5
    Spelling/Grammar /5
    Total /30

    Return to Fall into Fiction

  • Winter Reading

    No, you cannot collection prize books or giveaway prizes after the program ends. 

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    YES. Youth can be registered for Winter Reading on their own AND as part of a class/group, as there are separate grand prize contests for groups and individuals. Contact us with any additional questions.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    There will be five grand prizes awarded in all. One grand prize per age group (see grand prize descriptions). The group grand prize are book bundles of age-appropriate titles.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    YES. Any student who is registered for Winter Reading as part of a class/group can claim a giveaway prize, same as anyone else. All giveaways MUST be claimed in person at a local SJPL branch. Giveaway prizes WILL NOT be set aside on site or sent to local schools. Educators, please remind students to claim their giveaway prize in person at any SJPL location.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    YES, all adults and youth MUST claim their free participation prize IN PERSON at any SJPL location.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    A wide variety of genres will be available for youth ages 0–18, including chapter books, easy readers, picture books, baby board books, graphic novels, and more.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    A library card is NOT required to participate, but SJPL membership is always encouraged.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    Registration for Winter Reading begins on the first day of the program. Please check our Winter Reading page for more information. 

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    Registration is available online via Beanstack, as well as via the Beanstack mobile app, or on-site at any SJPL location. Register via Beanstack as an individual or as a class or group.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

    Anyone! Individuals and groups are both encouraged to participate for a chance at fun participation prizes, as well as exciting grand prizes.

    Related Page: Winter Reading