Scary Story Writing Contest
2023 marks Portland Public Library’s Inaugural Scary Story Writing Contest! Time to get scary and enter for a chance to win a prize and showcase your story on our website. We want to be extra scared this Halloween, so send us your most bone-chilling story!
Contest Eligibility:
- The contest is open to anyone who is eligible for a Portland Public Library card. You do not need to have a library card to enter—though we’d love to get you one!
- There are two categories: one for teens (ages 12-19, or sixth grade through twelfth grade) and one for adults (over age 19). You will select your category when submitting your story.
Submission Details:
- Stories must be less than 2,000 words and must be submitted after completing the submission form (below).
- Stories must be originally created by the contestant.
- One entry per person.
- Submissions will be anonymized for judging.
- Entries must follow our rules of conduct. Stories that contain hate speech, extreme violence, and/or abusive language will be disqualified. (If you would feel comfortable reading it aloud to a general audience, then it will most likely qualify!) If you have questions, please contact us.
- Submissions will be accepted from September 1 through Halloween (October 31). Winners will be selected by the end of 2023.
Winners will receive a gift card to a local business. We will also publish your story on the Portland Public Library website!
Questions?
- For questions about the teen contest, contact Arwyn: sherman@portlib.org.
- For questions about the adult contest, contact Becca: starr@portlib.org.