By Peighton Yoakam , OMAHA, Neb—The Friends of Omaha Public Library has announced the annual Virginia Frank Writing Contest, inviting talented young writers from the local area to showcase their creativity. This contest is open to 5th- through 8th-grade students residing in Douglas or Sarpy counties. Participants must submit an original fiction piece that reimagines a character from a book they have read and enjoyed. The contest celebrates creativity, encourages persistence, and offers a platform for budding authors to shine.
Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
- Students may attend public, private, parochial, or home schools.
- The contest requires entrants to submit a typed story no longer than 750 words.
- A key requirement is that the title or subtitle must clearly identify both the book and its author from which the character is drawn.
- Each contestant is allowed only one submission, and all entries become the property of the Friends of Omaha Public Library.
- Winners may have their stories featured on the library’s website and social media channels, providing excellent exposure and recognition for local talent.
Judging Process and Standards
The contest takes its judging process very seriously. For each grade level—from 5th through 8th—two judges with educational backgrounds review the submissions. These judges invest hours meticulously reading through each entry and discussing their top picks before making a final decision. Bridget West, a board member of Friends of Omaha Public Library, explained,
“The Virginia Frank writing contest is all about showcasing the talents of local area students. They have to write a short story, 750 words or less, based on a character from a book they’ve read. They can either take that character in a new direction or completely reinvent them. It has to be a completely original work of fiction. We’re celebrating and showcasing the creative talents of our local students.”
West noted that the judges now use a formal rubric to ensure fairness and consistency, making the selection process as equitable as possible.
Success Stories and Student Growth
Past contests have demonstrated that persistence and practice pay off. Nora Barth, an author and former winner, shared her personal journey in the contest.
“I submitted to the contest in 8th grade and won,” Barth recalled. “I remember working hard to condense my story so that every sentence contributed to creating the atmosphere. Even when I didn’t win at first, I kept entering and eventually moved from third place to first place.”
Her story is a testament to how continuous effort and perseverance in writing can lead to success and personal growth.
Tips and Encouragement for Aspiring Writers
Barth offers practical advice to students considering entering the contest “You can’t edit a blank page. Getting your ideas down is the first step, then refining them later. So, just get it done and then fix it up.” This insight emphasizes the importance of starting with a draft and not being discouraged by initial setbacks. The contest not only builds writing skills but also boosts confidence, potentially inspiring students to pursue writing even further, perhaps even leading to future published works.
The Virginia Frank Writing Contest continues to grow in popularity, reflecting the increasing enthusiasm for creative writing among local middle school students. The Friends of Omaha Public Library remains dedicated to nurturing young talent and encouraging students to explore the limitless possibilities of storytelling. With strict guidelines ensuring originality and fairness, the contest stands as an excellent opportunity for students to develop their craft while gaining recognition and confidence in their abilities. This annual event underscores the library’s commitment to fostering a love for literature and creative expression in the community.
You can read the full story here.
Nora Barth’s winning piece from 2021: Brick by Brick.
