The Florida Book Awards has kicked off its 10th annual competition with a call for entries in nine categories (including Spanish language).

Established in 2006 and now the most comprehensive state book awards program in the nation, the contest recognizes and celebrates the year’s best books penned by Sunshine State residents with the exception of submissions to the Florida Nonfiction and Visual Arts categories, whose authors may live elsewhere.

The Florida Book Awards competition is coordinated through the Florida State University Libraries, with the support of partner organizations from across the state.

“The 10th anniversary of the Florida Book Awards is an opportunity for us to celebrate its success and growth,” said Julia Zimmerman, dean of Florida State University Libraries. “More than ever, the submissions showcase the best of Florida’s literary talent as well spotlight the state’s fascinating history and rich natural assets.”

The contest categories are Children’s Literature, Florida Nonfiction, General Fiction, General Nonfiction, Poetry, Popular Fiction, Spanish Language, Visual Arts and Young Adult Literature. Last year, the Gwen P. Reichert Gold Medal for Children’s Literature was introduced, which provides a cash prize for the gold winner in the Children’s Literature category. This award is in memory of Gwen P. Reichert and serves as a lasting tribute to honor her accomplishments as a rare book collector, nurturer of authors and their audience, and her commitment to children’s education.

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