Milton Public Library Invites Young Writers to Enter Its Annual Short Story Contest

Milton's young storytellers have a chance to share their work and win a prize. The Milton Public Library is once again running its annual 'Put Pen to Paper' short story contest, inviting local students to put their imaginations on the page.

What Happened

The contest is open to students in Grades 6 through 12 who live in Milton or attend school in the community. Entries can be on any topic, up to 1,500 words, with one submission allowed per student.

Stories are judged in two age categories, with first, second and third-place awards in each. The deadline to enter is October 4 at 11:59 p.m., during Culture Days.

Key Details

• Eligibility: students in Grades 6 to 12 who live in Milton or attend school there.

• Two categories: Grades 6 to 8, and Grades 9 to 12, each with first, second and third-place awards.

• Stories can be on any topic, up to 1,500 words, one entry per student.

• Deadline: October 4, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

• Entries go through the library's online Junior or Senior forms, or by email to Corrina.mcgill@beinspired.ca with the student's name, grade, title and word count.

• All work must be original; the library notes that AI tools are not permitted.

• Formatting: typed, 12-point Times New Roman, with the title and page number on each page and no author name on the story itself.

Community Impact

Writing contests like this give Milton students a creative outlet and a real audience for their work, while encouraging original writing at a time when many are curious about AI tools. For younger residents, it is also a friendly introduction to what the library offers beyond books.

Families with budding writers may want to note the October 4 deadline and help students get their entries in on time.

Background

The Milton Public Library runs a range of programs for children, teens and adults throughout the year. Its annual short story contest is one of several initiatives aimed at encouraging local creativity and literacy.

Source: FM101 Milton Now / Milton Public Library — https://www.miltonnow.ca/2026/09/22/139067/

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