Calling all Illinois self- or indie-published authors!

On April 1, the Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project will kick off its 12th annual contest which recognizes excellence in self- or indie-published books. Works of adult or young adult fiction as well as memoirs will be accepted from April 1 through May 31, 2025.

With entries judged by Illinois library staff members, this unique contest captures the power of libraries and librarians to connect readers with great reads and to raise the profiles of Illinois authors. For complete information about contest requirements, entry information, and prizes, click here. 

Our contest winner will receive a $2,000 prize, state-wide recognition and publicity, plus opportunities to promote their book at Illinois libraries, and the choice to make their book available to a select ebook collection which may earn royalties.

Also, all entrants will have the opportunity to enter the Indie Author Project contest. This a separate event that is open to self- and indie-published authors worldwide. Authors entering the Illinois contest will automatically be given the option to simultaneously enter the Indie Author Project contest which selects one winner and two honorable mentions in each of the following genres: Mystery/Thrillers, Romance, SciFi/Fantasy, Historical Fiction, General/Contemporary Fiction, Memoir, and Young Adult. Click here for more information about this exciting opportunity.

Past winners of the Soon to Be Famous Illinois Author Project contest have enjoyed increased sales, more visibility through appearances at Illinois libraries, and the credibility that comes from recognition by members of one of the most trusted professions around—librarians.