The Reader Engagement Prize is a special £10,000 award that celebrates and rewards readers who take an active role in the Libraro Prize 2026. It recognises the readers who contribute most meaningfully to the competition by interacting with entries and sharing thoughtful feedback.
Prize Overview
The Reader Engagement Prize runs from 19 February 2026 to 20 March 2026. During this time, every interaction you make with Libraro Prize entries helps shape the experience for both writers and other readers.
How to Take Part
To participate, simply engage with entries from the Libraro Prize 2026. You can do this by:
Liking the entries you enjoy
Commenting with feedback or encouragement
Sharing entries with others
Saving works you find interesting or inspiring
All of these actions count toward your overall engagement activity on the platform.
How the Prize Is Assessed
The Reader Engagement Prize is assessed based on a combination of qualitative data and subjective criteria. This includes:
Readers who have read sample chapters
Readers who have liked or saved entries
Readers who have followed eligible authors
Readers who have provided credible, helpful, and substantial comments that are beneficial to authors, other readers, and potential publishers
Reader engagement activity is recorded on the Libraro Platform and runs during a specified period. While reader interactions (such as likes, comments, shares, or saves) are considered in the assessment, the final decision also involves jury assessment, and Libraro retains discretion over the final shortlist. The exact weighting of reader engagement versus jury assessment is not disclosed
Why Reader Engagement Matters
Active readers help bring stories to life. Your comments, likes, and shares not only support authors but also help the Libraro community discover and celebrate new talent.
By engaging regularly and thoughtfully, you contribute to a richer, more connected literary space and could be recognised as the Reader Engagement Prize winner for 2026.