The Midwest Book Awards program, sponsored by the Midwest Book Publishers Association (MIPA) since 1990, recognizes creativity in content and execution, overall book quality, and the book’s unique contribution to its subject area. Books published in 2014 by a publishing company from one of the following 12 states are eligible to enter: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Books may be entered in 37 categories, ranging from art and coffee table books to fiction and nonfiction, poetry and self-help books. There are also categories recognizing titles for layout and design. Three finalists will be selected in each category and one winner chosen. Finalists and award winners will receive certificates and may purchase foil seals to place on their books. First place winners will also receive a bronze medallion. The deadline for entry is Jan. 15, 2015.

“The Midwest has historically been one of the most active regions in the country for the literary arts, and we are looking forward to seeing all the great books published this year,” said Judith Palmateer, Midwest Book Awards chair.

The winners will be announced at the 25th Anniversary Midwest Book Awards Gala, which will be held on May 13, 2015, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Olson Campus Center at the Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Entry fees for MIPA members are $55 for each title (first category) and $20 for each additional category for MIPA members; for non-MIPA members, $115 for each title (first category) and $20 for each additional category. Entry forms are available online at www.mipa.org/midwest-book-awards/book-award-entry.

For more information, visit www.mipa.org/midwest-book-awards. Awards program chair Judith Palmateer can also be reached by phone at 651-452-0463 or email at jpalmateer0463@comcast.net.