The 24th annual Writers Competition at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library has begun.

Writers ages 6 to adult can submit up to two entries of fiction and nonfiction prose (no poetry please) – two fiction pieces, two nonfiction or one in each category – up to 2,000 words.

Entry forms and rules are available at the library, 702 E. Front Ave., beginning Jan. 31 or can be downloaded from the library website, www.cdalibrary.org. The web entry forms can be found under the “About Us” and click on “Annual Events.”

You can receive entry forms/rules by mail by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Writers Competition, Cd’A Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

The deadline for entries is March 31. Entries mailed to the library should be postmarked no later than March 30.

Cash prizes, funded in part by the Coeur d’Alene Kiwanis Club, are awarded in each category and age group at a ceremony in May hosted by the Friends of the Coeur d’Alene Public Library. Prizes are $100 for first place, $50 for second and $25 for third.

Former Library Director Julie Meier began the competition more than 20 years ago with the goal of discovering great writers in our midst, to provide young writers an outlet for their work, and to encourage excellence in writing.

Each year all entries in the competition – not only the winners – are included in professionally bound volumes added to the library’s collection. These volumes can be reviewed in the Nelson Memorial Room at the library. The entries are judged by professional writers, editors, and educators.

Patrons who need accommodation to participate in library programs or services are asked to contact the staff prior to the activity by calling 208-769-2315.