Kansas City Public Library

A prize of $10,000 is given in alternating years for a poetry collection or a book of fiction by an author whose work “demonstrates a commitment to social justice and diversifies contemporary American literature.” This year the award will be given for a poetry collection. The winner agrees to participate in a reading tour of Missouri colleges, universities, and libraries as well as a ceremony sponsored by the Kansas City Public Library, the University of Missouri, and the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Publishers may submit a digital copy or five print copies (or unbound galleys) of a poetry collection published in 2024 (or scheduled to be published by the end of November 2025) by April 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for the required entry form and complete guidelines.