Books may be nominated in one of six categories. The six categories include (1) Nonfiction, (2) Fiction, (3) Art, Photography, (4) Children's Literature, (5) Poetry, and (6) Memoir.
The awards recognize books that are substantially representative of northeastern Minnesota in the areas of history, culture, heritage, or lifestyle. For purposes of the awards, northeastern Minnesota includes the following counties: Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Kanabec, Koochiching, Lake, Pine, and St. Louis.
Nominated books must have been originally released in 2016.
Prizes will include $200, one hundred book seals, and a plaque for the winner in each category. Books receiving honorable mention in each category will be recognized with a plaque and one hundred book seals.
To nominate a book, visit the NEMBA website and complete the nomination form. Send it along with one copy of each nominated title and the non-refundable $25 entry fee for each title to:
Kathryn A. Martin Library, UMD
Library Administration Office
416 Library Drive
Duluth, MN 55812
Nominations must be postmarked or delivered to the Kathryn A. Martin Library by February 1, 2017.
An awards reception honoring all nominated authors will be held on Thursday, May 18, 2017, in Kirby Ballroom on the UMD campus. The reception is open to the public.