Colorful graphic displaying the 2026 South Texas International Book Festival theme, ‘Pages to Possibilities.’

Call for Local Authors

The South Texas International Book Festival (STIBF) is accepting submissions from Rio Grande Valley authors for 2026 programming, including the Local Author Showcase and Read Around Town. Applications must be mailed or delivered in person by Friday, July 31, 2026. Selection is limited.

Submit a Book!

Are you a writer from the Rio Grande Valley with a story to share? We want to hear from you! McAllen Public Library is now accepting submissions for two special STIBF Presents events: the Local Author Showcase and Read Around Town.

Download Application

Submission Deadline

Friday, July 31, 2026

Please Note: Because of the high number of submissions we receive, we may not be able to respond to every individual inquiry. However, we do our best to send out responses to all submissions before the full lineups are announced in September.

Which Program is Right for You?

Local Author Showcase category graphic.

Local Author Showcase

For authors writing for adult audiences
Readings, panel discussions, book signings, and book sales
Lead-up event to STIBF
Ages 18+ focus

Download Application

Read Around Town Week category graphic.

Read Around Town Week

For authors writing for children & families
Storytime & activity presentations
Events at McAllen Public Library branches
Great for children's authors

Download Application

Why Participate?

STIBF gives local authors a chance to connect with new readers and share their stories with the community.

100+
Local authors featured since 2014

Thousands
of readers attend our events

Multiple
Locations and community partners

Frequently Asked Questions

When should a book be submitted?
Books should be submitted by the deadline of Friday, July 31, 2026.

What types of books are not considered?
We do not consider self-help, instructional, business, academic, devotional, journal, or workbook titles. Books using primarily AI-generated writing or artwork will not be considered, though limited AI-assisted editing or formatting tools may be used. Books must be available in printed format, as e-book only or audio-only releases will not be considered.

Books that promote hate, discrimination, or misinformation will not be considered. Incomplete submissions or materials that do not follow the guidelines may also be disqualified.

What types of books are considered?
STIBF features a diverse mix of literature from across the Rio Grande Valley, including children’s and young adult books, fiction, poetry, graphic novels, memoirs, narrative nonfiction, cookbooks, and art or photography books published within the past two years.

Why must my book have been published within the last two years?
We prioritize books published within the past two years so we can highlight recent work and give authors with newer titles a chance to connect with readers and the community. This also helps us support writers who may be sharing their books at events for the first time.

Who decides which authors are invited?
A committee of library staff and festival organizers carefully reviews all submissions to select authors whose work aligns with the goals and audience of each event.

What if I have a question not answered on this page?
We’re happy to help! Reach out to us through email at ABenavides@mcallen.net.