Jun 9

Written by: Joe Longo
Monday, June 09, 2008 

“Fresh Ink” is a creative writing competition for teens who live or study anywhere in Niagara Region. The contest closes on July 31. Entry forms are available at our library.

Short story and poetry writers between 12 and 18 years of age may submit their works for the 8th annual Fresh Ink Writing Awards. Professional writers will judge the entries on the basis of originality and style, general presentation, grammar and spelling.

Cash prizes will be awarded in each category for entrants 12 to 15 years of age and 16 to 18 years of age. First prize will be $100 and the second prize will be $50.

There is a limit of one poem and/or one short story per person. Short stories must be 1000-1500 words in length. Poems may be any length. Entries must be in English, typed or neatly printed, double spaced and pages numbered with the title on each page. A completed entry form must be attached to your submission. Do not put your name anywhere on your work.

Your work must be original and unpublished. Plagiarism or copyright infringement will be grounds for disqualification or the return of any prize money awarded. Prize winners or their designate must be present to receive their award and read from their work at the awards Ceremony on the evening of Oct. 23 at the St. Catharines Public Library.

Submissions may be delivered to any public library in Niagara Falls or in Niagara Region; or submitted electronically at www.stcatharines.library.on.ca/freshink; or mailed to: Fresh Ink, St. Catharines Public Library, 54 Church St., St. Catharines, ON, L2R 7K2. For more information call 905-688-6103, Extension 236.

“Fresh Ink” is sponsored by TD Canada Trust with the St. Catharines Public Library who invite all Niagara Region teens to participate.

A lounge area in front of the graphic novel shelves in a section of the adult department at the Victoria Avenue Library displays books of interest to teens.

The catalogue on the library website www.nflibrary.ca has recommended books for teens with new additions listed. When you get to the first page of the catalogue, click on “Award Winners and Other Lists” and then on “Of Interest to Teens.” Lists include the Alex Awards, Mrs. C’s Books for Tweens, Graphic Novels, Gay, Lesbian & Questioning Fiction, New Teen Fiction, and other categories.

Many teens have discovered the wealth of current information found in the Online Research Tools section of the library website.