Young comic book creators across Kenton County have until September 30 to draw, write, and submit original comics for a shot at publication in the Kenton County Public Library's anthology collection.

The library's fifth annual Comic Book Contest is open to two age groups: a Kids Division for ages 12 and under, and a Teens Division for ages 13 to 18. One winner from each division will receive a prize basket and have their work added to the library's existing anthology, available for any patron to check out.

Courtney Regensburger, who wrote the library's contest announcement, said the contest gives young people a chance to flex creative muscles in both art and writing. "The pride and happiness stirred by being able to point a piece of art and say 'I made that' carries a heavy weight," Regensburger wrote in the August 3 blog post.

Submissions open September 5 and close September 30. Winners will be announced October 12.

Rules and format

Comics must be drawn on 8.5-by-11-inch paper, with artwork fitting within a 6-by-9.5-inch space. Entries are limited to 10 pages, one-sided only. The library has template pages with the correct dimensions available at the Children's Desk at the Covington branch, located at the corner of 5th and Scott streets in downtown Covington.

One rule the library emphasizes: no AI-generated artwork or writing. Any submission using AI will be immediately disqualified, as will work done by a parent, guardian, or third party.

Entries can be submitted in person at the Covington branch or emailed to [email protected]. Each submission must include a separate author information sheet with the participant's name, age, and contact information.

Judges score entries on illustration (workmanship, technique, page layout, creativity, and expressiveness) and story (originality, clarity, settings and characters, grammar, and dialogue), each rated on a five-point scale.

Crafting sessions this month

Before the contest opens, the library is hosting Comic Book Crafting sessions at the Covington branch throughout August. The evening programs run 6 to 8 p.m. and are open to all ages. Art supplies, paper, and a book binder are provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The sessions welcome anyone who wants to create a comic, whether for the contest or personal use. Specific dates are listed on the library's events calendar.

Adult division planned for 2027

The library plans to add an adult division to the contest in 2027. Regensburger wrote that the adult anthology will be kept separate from the children's and teens' collection.

For more information, visit kentonlibrary.org or call 859-962-4000.