The Freedom to Read Georgia student essay contest provides an opportunity for  Georgia K-12 students to share their opinions on and feelings about having a wide range of choices in reading.  The contest is managed by members of Georgia Library Media Association and Georgia  Council of Teachers of English.   Essays will be judged on a modified version of the Georgia Student Media Festival rubric.  Judging is held for exemplary, merit, and participant designations for elementary, middle, and high school contest levels. 

For the 2026 contest year, exemplary winners will win a book from a selected list (provided through Gladys Autrey with Mackin) and other participants will be entered in random drawings for books donated by Georgia authors.   Schools may also win a visit from a Georgia author, so spread the word in your school today!

Resources linked below provide background information & position statements on reader's rights and the First Amendment:

American Library Association Freedom to Read Statement 

American Library Association Intellectual Freedom and Censorship FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

National Coalition Against Censorship The First Amendment in Schools

National Council of Teachers of English The Students’ Right to Read

Exemplary Level Essays 2025

Exemplary Level Essays 2024

Exemplary Level Essays 2023

Exemplary Level Essays 2022

Exemplary Level Essays 2021