Submissions accepted April 1- May 11

Phoenix Public Library supports local authors through various programming. To provide quality experiences for customers and local authors, the library will host an annual Call for Authors. For six weeks, beginning April 1, the library will invite local authors to submit their work and, if selected, be placed on an approved author list. Authors on this list will be invited to the Local Author Fair in November and may be invited to take part in additional programming throughout the year. Submissions will only be accepted during this time frame.  Selected authors will remain on the list until April 1, 2026 and will need to reapply at that time. There are no fees for applying for or taking part in these events.

General Author Programming

Author programs will be held throughout the year. Programs can be in person at various library locations or online. Staff will select authors from the approved list that are best suited to the theme or spirit of the program. Authors will not always have the opportunity to sell their books at these programs. Authors have the right to decline an event without being removed from the approved list. Arizona residency is not required to be on the general author programming list; however, preference will be given to Arizona-based authors.

Local Author Fair

Guidelines for submission

Eligibility Requirements
You must be an Arizona-based author and have professionally bound, print copies of your book to sell during the fair. Books can be traditional or self-published, and writers of all audiences and genres are welcome. (Please note though books intended for mature audiences are welcome at the fair, all book covers, displays, and handouts you bring to the fair should be suitable for a general audience of varying ages.) Electronic versions are also permitted.

Application and Book Submission
In addition to your application, a copy of the book must be submitted to Burton Barr Central Library by Sunday, May 11.  If you have more than one title listed on your application, each title must be submitted. These books will not be returned and will be used in raffles for the library’s annual charity event, Dinner in the Stacks. All proceeds support library programs. All titles will be evaluated by library staff. Due to space requirements, we cannot accept all applicants. Book titles do not have to currently be available in the library collection to apply. However, titles must be approved for the library collection and in the process of being purchased for participation in the fair. Titles that are not available for purchase through a contracted Phoenix Public Library vendor will not be eligible for the fair. Phoenix Public Library reserves the right to accept or refuse any applicant at its discretion.

After submitting your application, deliver or mail your book/s to Burton Barr Central Library. Books must be received by close of business, Sunday, May 11; late submissions will not be accepted. Books should be mailed or delivered to Kelly Pearson, Burton Barr Central Library, 1221 N Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85004.  For electronic books, a copy should be submitted with your application. You will be notified by email Tuesday, July 22 if you have been accepted for the fair and programming list.

Fair Day/Hours
Saturday, November 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Burton Barr Central Library. Authors must stay for the entire duration of the fair.

Space Assignments
Space includes 1 table and 2 chairs. All boxes, displays, and personal belongings must fit on or under the table. Due to space restrictions, there can only be two people seated behind each table during the event: the author and one (optional) person. Only the author needs to be listed on the application. If two authors would like to share a table, please indicate this on the application.  

Sales
The Library is not responsible for collecting payments on behalf of authors. The Library does not provide change, cash boxes, or credit card readers. Authors who accept electronic payments must be able to operate wirelessly. The Library has publicly accessible Wi-Fi for use but is not able to provide technical support.  Authors may sell only the books listed on application. Authors must be legally able to sell books at the fair. Authors must procure and provide their own books, as well as determine their own pricing.