Submit a Book!

Are you a writer from the Rio Grande Valley with a story to share? We want to hear from you! McAllen Public Library is now accepting submissions for two special STBF Presents events: the Local Author Showcase and Read Around Town.

For full submission details and guidelines, please read the sections below. All submissions must be received by the stated deadline. Late entries will not be considered.

Important Dates

Submission Deadline:
Friday, August 28, 2026

Please Note:
Because of the high number of submissions we receive, we may not be able to respond to every individual inquiry. However, we do our best to send out responses to all submissions before the full lineups are announced in September.

STBF Presents:
Local Author Showcase

The Local Author Showcase highlights writers from across the Rio Grande Valley and gives them a platform to promote their work through book readings, discussions, book sales & signing. Local authors interested in being part of the showcase can submit their book along with the Call for Authors Submission Form indicating their interest in the Local Author Showcase. This event is designated for authors with a focus on audiences ages 18+.

All books will be reviewed based on the criteria listed on the Call for Authors Submission Form. Applicants selected for participation in the Local Author Showcase will receive an official invitation within two weeks of their submission. Deadline to submit is Friday, August 28, 2026.

STBF Presents:
Read Around Town

Local children’s authors in the RGV are invited to submit their books to be part of the Read Around Town. During Read Around Town week, local children’s authors will visit an MPL branch for a storytime, fun activity, book selling and signing. 

All books will be reviewed based on the criteria listed on the Call for Authors Submission Form. Applicants selected for participation in Read Around Town will receive an official invitation within two weeks of their submission. Deadline to submit is Friday, August 28, 2026.

When should a book be submitted?
Books should be submitted by the deadline of Friday, August 28, 2026.

What types of books are considered?
STBF features a diverse mix of literature from across the Rio Grande Valley, including children’s and young adult books, fiction, poetry, graphic novels, memoirs, narrative nonfiction, cookbooks, and art or photography books published within the past two years.

What types of books are not considered?
We do not consider self-help, instructional, business, academic, devotional, journal, or workbook titles. Books using primarily AI-generated writing or artwork will not be considered, though limited AI-assisted editing or formatting tools may be used. Books must be available in printed format, as e-book only or audio-only releases will not be considered.

Books that promote hate, discrimination, or misinformation will not be considered. Incomplete submissions or materials that do not follow the guidelines may also be disqualified.

Who decides which authors are invited?
A committee of library staff and festival organizers carefully reviews all submissions to select authors whose work aligns with the goals and audience of each event.

Why must my book have been published within the last two years?
We prioritize books published within the past two years so we can highlight recent work and give authors with newer titles a chance to connect with readers and the community. This also helps us support writers who may be sharing their books at events for the first time.

What if I have a question not answered on this page?
We’re happy to help! Reach out to us through email at referencelibrarian@mcallen.net.