The Library of Virginia, in partnership with William & Mary Libraries, is accepting nominations for a new award honoring excellence in the field of children’s literature with a focus on Virginia.

The 2024 Children’s Virginia Literary Award will recognize picture books and middle-grade works for reading levels up to age 12. Fiction or nonfiction books by authors with a connection to Virginia and books set in Virginia are eligible for the award, which includes a $2,500 monetary prize. For the 2024 award period, books must have been published during 2023.

“We’re pleased to partner with William & Mary Libraries in recognizing excellence in books written for young readers,” said Sandra G. Treadway, librarian of Virginia. “Virginia and

Virginians produce many outstanding works within children’s literature. The Library is looking forward to elevating awareness of these wonderful books through this annual award.”

“Children’s books are critical to a child’s learning and growth. They support language development, creativity, and curiosity, and help children learn about themselves, others, and the world around them,” said Carrie Cooper, dean of University Libraries at William & Mary. “We are thrilled to recognize the writers of these important books.”

Nominations can be submitted at https://www.lva.virginia.gov/public/litawards/nominate.asp by March 31. Up to five finalists, selected by an independent panel of judges, will be announced in July.

The award will be presented at the annual Virginia Literary Awards, the commonwealth’s premier event honoring Virginia writers and their contributions to literature. The 2024 Virginia Literary Awards will be presented at the Library on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024.

For more information, visit

https://www.lva.virginia.gov/public/litawards/childrens-literature.htm.