Waterford Libraries is inviting submissions from literary artists across West Waterford for the inaugural edition of West Waterford Writes, a new literary publication celebrating the rich creativity, talent, and storytelling tradition of the region.

The anthology will showcase a collection of original poetry and short stories by writers who are either from West Waterford or currently living in West Waterford.

Whether you are an established writer or are sharing your work for the first time, West Waterford Writes aims to provide a platform for local voices and original writing.

Alan Butler, Executive Librarian with Waterford City and County Council, is encouraging writers from West Waterford to submit their work, saying, “West Waterford Writes is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creativity of local artists, and give their voices a wider audience.

“We want to encourage writers and poets from across our community to share their stories, and ideas through writing, while showcasing the incredible talent we have right here on our doorstep.”

In addition to publication in the anthology, there will be an award for the best poem or short story written on the subject of travel. The award is inspired by the remarkable legacy of Dervla Murphy, whose adventurous spirit and gift for storytelling motivated generations to be curious, and see the world with an open mind.

Submission guidelines:

  • Entrants must be from or currently living in West Waterford
  • Poetry submissions are limited to 3 poems per entrant
  • Short stories are limited to one submission per entrant and must be between 1,500 and 2,000 words
  • Work must be the original creation of the author and previously unpublished
  • All entries must be written in eitherEnglish or Irish
  • One submission per category per author
  • No feedback will be provided on submitted work
  • Once work is submitted it cannot be altered or amended
  • AI generated work will not be accepted
  • Only email submissions will be accepted
  • Submissions must include name and address for correspondence purposes 

All submissions must be emailed to library@waterfordcouncil.ie with the subject West Waterford Writes by 5pm, September 18th, 2026.

Please submit work as an attachment to the email and label attachments poetry or short story.