When does Ink & Ribbon Press accept open-reading submissions?

Our annual Open Reading Period runs from December 15 through February 14. Selected manuscripts are considered for publication in the Fine Editions Series and The LemonLight Anthology.

Is there a submission fee for the Open Reading Period?

Yes. A $15 reading fee supports our volunteer editors, production costs, and fair payment to poets featured in upcoming editions.

How do I submit my work?

Submit your manuscript through Subfolio at inkandribbon.subfolio.com. We accept PDF or Word files up to 60 pages, with a brief cover letter and contact information.

Who reads submissions for Ink & Ribbon Press?

All submissions are reviewed by G. K. Allum and the editorial team, with assistance from guest readers drawn from the poetry community.

When will poets hear back about their submissions?

Decisions are emailed by mid-April following the close of submissions. Final selections are announced in late summer.

Poetry
Submissions

Open Reading — Closed until July 15 $3,000 LemonLight Prize — Open Now

We welcome poets at every stage. Submissions are reviewed with care, and every manuscript receives our full attention.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome full-length manuscripts and poetry collections from emerging and established poets. Simultaneous submissions are welcome. Our focus is on craft, voice, and enduring work.

Poetry written to last.

Submit

– A full manuscript (40–100 pages)

– A selection of 15–25 poems (20–40 pages)

Include

– Overview or project statement (100–250 words)

– Author biography (100–200 words)

Response time: 4–6 weeks

How to Submit

We use Subfolio to manage our reading periods. Upload your manuscript as a PDF or Word file with a brief cover letter and contact information.

Our Summer/Fall Open Reading Period runs July 15 – September 14. The reading period is currently closed.

Submit via Subfolio

Secure submission portal · $15 reading fee

Entry & Support

As a nonprofit literary press, your reading fee supports our editorial team, production costs, and fair payment to poets featured in upcoming editions. You may also add an optional donation to help bring our next book into the world.

Every entry — every act of belief — helps us prove that poetry still matters in print.

Reading Fee $15

Response Time 4–6 weeks

Payment Honorarium + Author Copies

Simultaneous Yes, welcome

The LemonLight Prize

$3,000

Our annual poetry prize is now open for submissions. Winner receives publication, cash award, and fine art edition copies. Closes June 15, 2026.

Explore the Prize

PoetrySubmissions