Library Gives Canton Writers a Chance to Get Published

Creative writers across Canton now have an outlet in which to convey their literary craftsmanship.
is in the midst of its second annual town-wide writing contest, , for poets and prose writers of all ages.

Each writer, whether in the elementary school, middle school, high school or adult category may submit one story or poem (or one of both) of no more than 1,000 words by March 7.

The contest, which is sponsored by the Canton Cultural Council, Friends of the Library and The Canton Citizen, was started in 2010 by Kathy Fox-Alfano, a chairperson of both the and the Canton Public Library Board of Trustees. Fox-Alfano said she saw a need for “a town-wide event that encouraged creativity and culture."

“Writing is a great way to express yourself for all ages,” she said.

Submissions, which will be judged anonymously, will earn first, second, and third prizes and first-place entries will be published in . Each also has the chance to be included in “Canton Writes,” a hardcover collection of Canton writings published by the . The proceeds from the book sales go toward library initiatives.

Last year, “Canton Writes” published 77 pieces selected by judges out of the 125 entries. The collection is sold at the library front desk and online at lulu.com. The contest awarded 29 Canton writers in prose and poetry categories divided by age group.

“People loved the idea that writers from [age] six to seniors were involved and that writing was encouraged here in Canton,” Fox-Alfano said.

This year, the judges of the contest are published writers from Canton, including Boston Globe Columnist Beverly Beckham, Canton historian and author George Comeau, and author, who won a prize in last year’s contest.

After judges choose the 29 winning pieces, the Canton Public Library will host an award ceremony April 7, 2011 in the Community Room at 7 p.m. The public is invited to hear the award-winners read their work.

“The best thing about the contest is the way it touches so many potential authors, from little kids to seniors,” Fox-Alfano said. “Everyone involved supports and enjoys the writings. It’s just another thing that makes Canton a great place to live.”

How to submit:
Send submissions as email attachments to cantonwrites@town.canton.ma.us
In the email message, include your name, Canton address, phone number, and age category: Elementary, Middle School, High School, Young Adult (ages 19-30) or Adult.