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:

    - Local Author Showcase deadline: August 1, 2025
    - Read Around Town deadline: September 5, 2025

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 MPL Local Author 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 MPL Local Author 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 1, 2025.


Submission Details

Deadline: Friday, August 1, 2025
Submission Form Link: Submission Form


Event Details

Location: Main Library at 4001 N. 23rd St., McAllen
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025

STBF Presents:
Read Around Town

Local children’s authors in the RGV are invited to submit their books to be part of the STBF Presents: Read Around Town, taking place October 20 – October 24. 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 Local Author 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, September 5, 2025.

Submission Details

Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025
Submission Form Link: Submission Form


Event Details

Locations: TBD
Dates: October 20 - 24, 2025

When should a book be submitted?
Each event has its own deadline. We recommend submitting as early as possible to allow time for review.

• For the Local Author Showcase, the deadline is August 1, 2025

• For Read Around Town, the deadline is September 5, 2025

What types of books are considered?
We welcome fiction, nonfiction, poetry, children's books, young adult, memoirs, and graphic novels. Anything that celebrates storytelling and reflects the diverse voices of our community.

What types of books are not 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.

What do I need to do to submit a book for consideration?
Read the submission guidelines in full, complete the required form, and provide a copy of your book. Each event may have slightly different requirements, so double-check the details before submitting.

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.

I’m an author from the Rio Grande Valley but don’t live in Hidalgo County. Can I still submit my book?
While this call is focused on highlighting authors from Hidalgo County as part of our effort to spotlight voices from our immediate service area, we absolutely welcome submissions from across the Rio Grande Valley. We know there’s incredible talent throughout the region, and we’re always excited to learn about new voices and stories. So yes, please feel free to submit your work!

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 or message us on our Facebook page (@southtexasbookfestival).