Writing is a great way to communicate, be creative and express emotions. It is empowering, increases growth, creates a greater understanding of empathy, and deepens compassion. The power of writing boosts literacy and connects all of us to each other. It makes the seemingly impossible imaginable.

This year the Ink Writing Project is back and better than ever! This fun and creative competition is for kids, teens, and young adults from grades 4 to 12. Starting June 1 and running until July 31, enter your original poetry and/or short stories. Entries can be in either category, so show us your creativity and love of the written word! Winners will receive one of eight $50 gift cards and have their writing included in an anthology that will be added to the library's collection.

Contest judging is broken down into four categories: Inksters-Junior (grades 4-6), Inksters-Senior (grades 7-8), Inklings–Junior (grades 9-10), and Inklings-Senior (grades 11-12). Your grade is the grade you’re going into unless you are in grade 12. Our panel of judges includes librarians and people from the community such as teachers and journalists. The judging is done blind, meaning the panel do not know the writers' names until after the judging is complete.

Contest Rules:

• You must either live in or go to school in Halton Hills
• Each entry must be your own work
• You can enter up to two pieces of writing
• For poetry, no longer than 20 lines
• Short stories, no longer than 1,000 words
• Do not put your name in your writing, just in the online entry form
• Your writing must be in English
• By entering the contest, you give us permission to use your name and/or photo for promotion

Please note: All writers will receive a certificate of participation. All four grade ranges will have a winner for poetry and short story, for a total of eight winners. The top entry in each of the four grade ranges will receive a “Best in Grade Range” award. Winners receive a $50 gift card and a copy of the completed anthology with all the winners. We will invite the winners to attend an award ceremony at Halton Hills Public Library in the fall. Best of luck and show us your creative writing talent!

For additional information about the Ink Writing Project please visit the HHPL’s website page.