Submissions Closing Soon For Library's Robert Penn Warren Writing Competition

K-12 students have until April 16 to enter the 'Tell Me a Story' contest inspired by the Kentucky author.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:45pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of students engaged in creative writing, their forms and activities blurred and obscured in a warm, hazy light, conveying the thoughtful, reflective nature of the writing competition.The library's annual writing competition encourages local students to reflect on how the past shapes the present through imaginative storytelling.Guthrie Today

The Todd County Public Library in Guthrie, Kentucky is hosting its annual 'Tell Me a Story' writing competition for K-12 students, inspired by the legacy of acclaimed author Robert Penn Warren. The competition, which closes on April 16, invites students to submit original stories or poems exploring the theme of 'The Past in the Present.' Three cash prizes will be awarded to the top entries, and the first-place winner will also receive recognition at the library.

Why it matters

The writing competition aims to engage local students with the literary heritage of Kentucky author Robert Penn Warren, one of the state's most renowned writers. By encouraging young people to reflect on how the past shapes the present, the competition promotes creative expression and an appreciation for the influence of history.

The details

The 'Tell Me a Story' writing competition is open to all public and homeschool students in Todd County, Kentucky. Submissions should be original stories or poems that explore the theme of 'The Past in the Present.' The third-place winner will receive $50, the second-place winner will receive $100, and the first-place winner will receive $100 as well as recognition on a plaque at the Todd County Public Library. Entries can be submitted directly to the library, via email, or through a student's teacher.

  • The writing competition closes on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • The annual competition is planned to continue in the future, with more winners' names added to the library's plaque.

The players

Amanda Hayes

The director of the Todd County Public Library, who oversees the annual writing competition.

Robert Penn Warren

The acclaimed Kentucky author whose legacy and poem 'Tell Me a Story' inspired the library's writing competition.

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What they’re saying

“Both public and homeschool Todd County students are invited to submit an original story or poem that corresponds to the 2026 theme, 'The Past in the Present.'”

— Amanda Hayes, Library Director

“This theme encourages students to write a narrative piece that explores how historical events, family legacies or past personal actions influence the present moment.”

— Amanda Hayes, Library Director

What’s next

The winners of the 'Tell Me a Story' writing competition will be announced and recognized at the Todd County Public Library after the April 16 submission deadline.

The takeaway

The Robert Penn Warren writing competition provides a valuable opportunity for local students to engage with Kentucky's rich literary heritage and explore how the past shapes the present through creative writing. The annual contest aims to inspire the next generation of storytellers and foster an appreciation for the enduring influence of history.