OPPORTUNITY: Volunteer Librarians for the 2026 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize

 

The Wilbur and Niso Smith Foundation is calling for volunteer librarians to join the review panel for the 2026 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize, a prestigious award celebrating the best adventure novels of today. This is a unique opportunity for librarians to explore outstanding fiction, contribute to shaping the longlist and shortlist, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about storytelling.

Who Can Apply?

We welcome applications from librarians of all types across the UK, including:

• Public libraries

• University or school libraries

• Private libraries

• Voluntary librarians

Even recently retired librarians are encouraged to apply. You must be UK-based to participate.

What the Role Involves

As a volunteer librarian, you will:

• Receive digital copies of novels submitted for the 2026 Adventure Writing Prize between February and April 2026.

• Review up to 15 novels, depending on availability, with each novel read by multiple reviewers.
• Participate in a group training session on Zoom to learn our guided review process:
     • Tuesday, 3rd February 2026: 7–8pm GMT
     • Wednesday, 4th February 2026: 1–2pm GMT

• Attend a roundtable discussion in London on Friday, 17th April 2026 (11am–4pm). Lunch will be provided, and an honorarium or travel reimbursement of up to £75 is offered.
Your feedback and advocacy during these discussions will help determine the longlist and shortlist for this year’s £10,000 prize-winning novel.

Why Volunteer?

This opportunity is ideal for librarians who:

Want to keep up-to-date with the best adventure fiction today

Enjoy meeting like-minded professionals

Are interested in behind-the-scenes workings of a global literary prize

In return for your time and expertise, volunteers receive either:
A £75 voucher (for books, Amazon, Marks & Spencer, etc.)
Or travel expenses up to £75

How to Express Your Interest

If you’d like to join the review panel:

• Email Charlotte Maddox, Prize Manager, at charlotte@wilbur-niso-smithfoundation.org

• Include in under 200 words:
Why you want to join the panel
Your experience as a librarian or working in a library

• Optional but helpful:
Where you work/worked as a librarian

How long you’ve been a librarian

Date of birth, gender, nationality, education level

Deadline: Sunday, 25th January 2026, end of day
Notification of selection: Tuesday, 27th January 2026

Join Us Today

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of one of the UK’s most prestigious adventure fiction awards, connect with fellow librarians, and read some of the most exciting novels of the year.
For any questions, email Charlotte Maddox at charlotte@wilbur-niso-smithfoundation.org.

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