Established in 1950, The Athenaeum Literary Award recognizes books of literary excellence by local authors and/or works that examine and reflect life in the greater Philadelphia area. Up to two awards are granted annually to fiction and/or non-fiction works, carrying a cash prize of $1,000 as well as an invitation to give a public lecture at The Athenaeum.
HOW TO APPLY
HOW TO APPLY
The Literary Award Committee judges books in accordance with the values set forth in its mission statement: "the Athenaeum of Philadelphia nurtures curiosity in members and neighbors, strengthening community through learning and discourse."
Books must be published in the calendar year for which the award will be given, submitted by December 1st of that year, and received by December 15th. The award is only for the calendar year, and books that do not win or are submitted/received after the deadline are not eligible for future awards.
The Committee may award one winner each in the categories of fiction and nonfiction, but may choose not to do so in any given year.
Books must be published in the calendar year for which the award will be given, submitted by December 1st of that year, and received by December 15th. The award is only for the calendar year, and books that do not win or are submitted/received after the deadline are not eligible for future awards.
The Committee may award one winner each in the categories of fiction and nonfiction, but may choose not to do so in any given year.
A worthy book, whether academic, literary, or popular, must be well-written, engaging, and accessible to a wide readership. Winning books will reflect fresh points of view, or shed new or unusual light on the greater Philadelphia area, and invite lively dialogue about our world.
Anthologies may be considered for the Award, as long as either the editor is local or the subject matter meets the criteria cited above. Likewise, books of collected stories or essays may be considered, provided they meet the above criteria and at least one portion has not been previously published.
Anthologies may be considered for the Award, as long as either the editor is local or the subject matter meets the criteria cited above. Likewise, books of collected stories or essays may be considered, provided they meet the above criteria and at least one portion has not been previously published.
Books that will not be considered for the award include, but may not be limited to:
- Self-published books
- Prescriptive and non-narrative nonfiction, such as self-help and cookbooks
- Books intended exclusively for an academic audience or of highly limited appeal to general readers
- Books of poetry
- Books for children or young adults
- Books consisting exclusively of photography and associated captions
- Books by Athenaeum Staff or Members of the Board of Directors
In recognition of his role in establishing the literary award, presentations are usually part of the Charles Wharton Stork Memorial Lecture program which was endowed in 1983 by his children. Dr. Stork (1881-1971) was a member of the board of directors from 1919 to 1968.
How To Apply
Authors or publishers may nominate appropriate works by sending two copies of each to:
Literary Award Committee
The Athenaeum of Philadelphia
219 S. 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106-3794
Authors and publishers are encouraged to submit works as soon as they are published, rather than waiting until the end of the year.
The Athenaeum Literary Awards will be announced April 7, 2025 at the Annual Meeting.
Questions? Please contact the librarian.
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