Shetland Library Young Writer Competition
The Young Shetland Writer award is run annually by Shetland Library. There are three categories: age 7 – 9 , age 10 – 12 and 13 – 18. An additional prize for best piece of writing in the Shaetlan language will also be awarded. It is open to all young people in Shetland, and is publicised through schools and the public library.
Shetland Library invites entries for the Shetland Library Young Writer 2026, for
- An original poem, written either in English or Shaetlan.
- An original short story (maximum 700 words), written either in English or Shaetlan.
The theme this year is “The Map”.
We challenge you to envision a world where you have the power to make positive changes however small. This theme can inspire stories about courage, leadership, and making a difference.
There will be three winning categories, according to your age on 29 May 2026:
Age 7 – 9 years
Age 10 – 12 years
Age 13 – 18 years
An additional prize for the best piece of writing in the Shaetlan language will also be awarded. Prizes will be £50 and a winner’s certificate.
Conditions of entry
- You must only submit work not previously published or entered in any other competition.
- Please take a copy before submitting, as entries will not be returned.
- Please make sure your entry is typed or very clearly written.
- Although the theme is "The Map", it would be to your advantage to select an alternative title for your work.
- Shetland Library reserves the right to use winning entries, for publication or otherwise, at any time.
- Entrants must be Shetland residents.
Submit your entry to the address below, to arrive no later than Friday 29 May 2026.
Include the following details (on a separate sheet from your piece of writing):
- Your name and address
- Date of birth / Age on 29.05.26
- Your telephone number
- Your email address
- Your school
- The title of your work