The 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award

Apply for the 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award: A Unique Opportunity for Libraries

Is your library looking for a way to engage children with nationally recognized authors and illustrators? The 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award presents an incredible opportunity for libraries to bring renowned storytellers into their communities. Established with generous funding from Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, this prestigious award honors the legacy of Maureen Hayes, a passionate advocate for children’s literature.

What is the Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award?

The Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award is designed to foster meaningful interactions between children and prominent authors/illustrators. The award offers up to $4,000 in funding for libraries to host a visit from a nationally recognized author or illustrator. It’s a rare chance to bring these talented individuals into your library for an unforgettable experience that will inspire young readers and artists.

The award covers only the honorarium and travel expense to and from the host city.  Your library, as host, would be responsible for making travel arrangements that are mutually agreed upon between the library and the author/illustrator, and for paying the upfront travel costs. By supporting these visits, the award helps create lasting connections between authors, illustrators, and young readers, allowing children to deepen their appreciation for the world of books.

Why Should Your Library Apply?

The Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award offers libraries a chance to bring an extra level of excitement to their programming. Not only does the visit introduce young readers to established creators, but it also gives them the chance to learn about the writing and illustration process directly from the professionals. These visits can inspire creativity, spark imaginations, and motivate children to pursue their own artistic or literary interests.

Moreover, the award is a great way to foster community collaboration. Libraries that are selected for the award have the opportunity to partner with other organizations to maximize the impact of the event, ensuring that it reaches a wider audience and provides more educational benefits.

Who Can Apply?

Applications for the 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award will be accepted starting on April 1, 2025. Libraries across the country are encouraged to apply, but applications will be judged based on several key criteria:

• Reason for Application: Libraries must clearly outline why they are seeking this visit and how it will benefit their community.
• Appropriateness of Venue: Libraries will be assessed on how suitable their venue is for hosting an author/illustrator visit.
• Administrative Support: Libraries must demonstrate strong administrative support to ensure the event is well-organized and successful.
• Cooperation with Other Organizations: Preference may be given to libraries that work with local schools, community organizations, or other partners to enhance the reach of the event.
• Visit Visibility/Reach: The library’s plan to promote the event and engage as many children and families as possible will be a key factor in the evaluation process.

Key Dates for the 2025 Award

• Application Period Opens: April 1, 2025
• Application Deadline: May 1, 2025

Libraries interested in applying should visit the ALSC (Association for Library Service to Children) website for more detailed application instructions. The full guidelines, eligibility requirements, application materials, and tips on writing a successful application can be found here.

How to Make Your Application Stand Out

To improve your chances of being selected for the 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award, it’s important to put together a strong application that addresses each of the criteria thoughtfully. Be sure to emphasize the impact that hosting a visit from an author/illustrator would have on your community, and demonstrate the enthusiasm and preparedness of your library to host such a special event.

Additionally, partnering with schools, local literacy organizations, and community centers can help show that your library’s event will have a far-reaching impact, benefiting children and families beyond just the immediate area.

Final Thoughts

The Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award is a fantastic opportunity for libraries to enrich their programming, engage with renowned authors and illustrators, and inspire young readers. If your library has been looking for a way to offer exciting and meaningful experiences for children, this award is the perfect chance to make that happen.

Make sure to mark your calendars for April 1, 2025, and start planning your application now to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!

For more information about the award and application process, visit the ALSC website. Best of luck to all applicants – we look forward to seeing how your library will bring the magic of books to life for the next generation of readers!

Tammie Benham and Jennifer Knight, co-chairs of the ALSC Programs and Services Recognition committee encourage you to consider this awesome opportunity!

The post The 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award appeared first on ALSC Blog.

 Apply for the 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award: A Unique Opportunity for Libraries Is your library looking for a way to engage children with nationally recognized authors and illustrators? The 2025 Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award presents an incredible opportunity for libraries to bring renowned storytellers into their communities. Established with generous funding from Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, this prestigious award honors the legacy of Maureen Hayes, a passionate advocate for children’s literature. What is the Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award? The Maureen Hayes Author/Illustrator Award is designed to foster meaningful interactions between children and prominent authors/illustrators. The award offers up to $4,000 in funding for libraries to host a visit from a nationally recognized author or illustrator. It’s a rare chance to bring these talented individuals into your library for an unforgettable experience that will inspire young readers and artists. The award covers only the honorarium and travel expense to…
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