Golden Sowers

 

Property of Nebraska Children's Choice Literary Award

Golden Sower Program

 

What is the Nebraska Golden Sower Award?

The Golden Sower Award is the children's choice literary award for the state of Nebraska.  The awards sponsors', the Nebraska Library Association, hope the program will sow seeds which: 

• stimulate children's thinking
• introduce different types of literature
• encourage independent reading
• increase library skills
• foster an appreciation for excellence in writing and illustrating

The award is given annually to authors and illustrators who are voted on by children from the state of Nebraska by April 15th.  

 

The award is given yearly in four different categories:

1. Little Bluestem Books Category: titles appropriate for grades kindergarten through 2nd. 
2. Honeybee Books Category: titles appropriate for grades 3rd - 5th.
3. Meadowlark Books Category: titles appropriate for grades 6-8.
4. Bald Eagle Books Category: titles appropriate for grades 9-12.

 

How does the Golden Sower Award program work?

At the beginning of the school year, students are introduced to the nominees from each category. (10 each per category) Students have access to the nominees through the  library, if a book is not available students may check with the Kearney Public Library, the ebook services, or place a hold on the book.  

 

How are students eligible to vote for the Golden Sower State Award?

Students must read or listen to at least 4 books from a category to be eligible to vote.  Once a student has read 4 books from a category, they need to fill out the form in the school library and have their sheet added to the Golden Sower notebook. Students that have filled out the form will receive an invitation to the Golden Sower Party in April.  Voting takes place at the Golden Sower party, then the votes are submitted to the program.

 

For more information on the Golden Sower Program visit https://nebraskalibraries.org/GoldenSower.

2025-2026 Honeybee & Meadowlark Book Nominees