A revolutionary new literary award is set to shake up the publishing world by handing the power of discovery directly to readers. The Libraro Prize, launched in partnership with publishing giant Hachette UK, boasts a £50,000 prize package and a unique model where the public curates the shortlist.
A Prize Designed to Break Down Barriers
Organisers state the award aims to "sidestep the traditional barricades of the book industry", creating a more democratic route to publication for aspiring writers. The process is straightforward: authors from anywhere in the world, aged 18 or over, can upload their full English-language manuscripts for adult or crossover Young Adult fiction to the Libraro platform.
From there, it's over to the readers. They will champion their favourite submissions, with the most-supported entries forming the official shortlist of six books. This reader-led approach is central to the prize's mission of giving book lovers a direct role in unearthing fresh literary talent.
Substantial Rewards for Writers and Readers Alike
The ultimate winner, selected by a professional judging panel from the reader-generated shortlist, will receive a comprehensive package. This includes £30,000 in cash plus an additional £20,000 dedicated to marketing the finished book, alongside a coveted publishing deal with Hachette UK.
In a further innovative twist, the prize also financially rewards participating readers. Two separate £10,000 reader prizes will be awarded: one to the individual who referred the winning author to the platform, and another to the most actively engaged reader on the site.
The Judges and Industry Backing
The judging panel tasked with choosing the final winner from the shortlist features notable industry figures. It is led by bestselling thriller author Elly Griffiths, and includes Deborah Maclaren, CEO of the LoveReading book recommendation platform, and respected book blogger Zubs J Malik.
The prize is a collaboration between Libraro, Hachette UK, and LoveReading, with support from organisations like the Frontline Club, New Writing North, and The Reading Agency. David Roche, Chairman of Libraro, said the initiative was created to "put power in the hands of writers and readers".
Deborah Maclaren emphasised the cultural shift, stating the prize reflects a belief that "readers shape culture". She added that participants are helping to "expand the range and diversity of books that reach publication".
Key Dates and Submission Details
The competition opens for manuscript entries on 19 January and closes on 15 February. The crucial period of reader engagement on the platform will run from 19 February to 20 March. All shortlisted authors will receive professional support to prepare their manuscripts before the judges' final assessment.
The public shortlist of six books will be revealed on 21 April, with the overall winner announced on 13 May.
This prize arrives during a significant boom in self-publishing, which has recently propelled authors like Colleen Hoover and Freida McFadden to mainstream success, proving that reader demand can redefine the literary landscape.
