The contest, in its 8th year, received over 500 entries and raised more than $5,000 for the San Diego Public Library system. The contest is an annual event, with the next one set to open for submissions on October 1, 2025

Impact: The contest is a fundraiser for the Library Foundation SD, with all proceeds supporting the San Diego Public Library system. 

Submission: Entries are accepted online through the Library Shop SD website and are limited to fit inside a standard matchbook. 

Prizes: The winner receives 50 matchbooks featuring their story, a $50 Library Shop gift card, their story published in the Library's newsletter, and an exhibition in the Hervey Family Rare Book Room's tiny book display.  

Event: The winning story is celebrated at the "Shorties" event, which also includes readings from other finalists. 

Sponsored By: San Diego Public Library Foundation