What began as a quirky challenge to craft a short story inside a matchbook has turned into one of San Diego’s most beloved literary events. The San Diego Library is gearing up for its 10th annual Matchbook Story Contest, running from Oct. 1 through Nov. 15.
“It is something that people look forward to the whole year,” said Scott Ehrig-Burgess, director of library engagement.
The contest invites writers to submit stories of 50 words or fewer.
“It’s San Diego’s shortest and quirkiest short story contest,” Ehrig-Burgess said, explaining that the initial idea was almost a joke but has attracted around 400 entrants annually. This year’s winner will be crowned at San Diego’s distinctive Shorties Awards Show, where participants roll out the red carpet for writers.
Entry costs $5, and all proceeds support the library system. Over the contest’s decade-long history, it has raised tens of thousands of dollars, thanks in part to generous donations, including a triple-match campaign by Judith Wenker. In 2025 alone, the contest received over 250 entries and garnered more than $5,000 to support the Library Foundation.
Past winners include both established authors and newcomers. Tara Gilboy, the first-ever winner, shared her own struggle.
“It’s really hard to write short. I actually had to write longer and keep cutting it shorter and shorter,” she said.
This year, participants have a chance to see their stories printed on 2,000 matchbooks, receive a gift card, and earn a spot in the library’s Rare Book Room.
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The deadline for submissions is Nov. 15. What do you have to lose? If your story isn’t a winner, it could just go up in smoke.
“I mean it comes with its own delete button basically,” Ehrig-Burgess said.
For more information, potential participants can visit the San Diego Library’s website by clicking here.