Lincoln Award

The Lincoln Award is given to the book from that year's master list that earns the highest number of student votes.

For a book to reach the master list, adult and young adult fiction and nonfiction titles must be nominated by teachers or librarians and vetted by the nominations committee. While the popularity of a particular title is important, the overall quality of the work is of primary importance. Each year, a panel of high school librarians, teachers, public librarians and students determines the final master list of twenty titles.

Registered schools promote these books, and students who have read four or more titles are eligible to vote. See the calendar for the award timeline and register today!

This program encourages teens to read for pleasure and to become lifelong readers. Named after former President Abraham Lincoln, an avid reader and noted author, the Lincoln Award is sponsored by ISLMA (Illinois School Library Media Association) and administered by the steering committee.