The 2019 Teen Video Challenge (TVC) is a go--with some exciting changes! [I've highlighted a few points below.] An overview of the TVC is--for the first time!--in the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) Teen Manual (pages 33-35). First, what will stay the same: * The TVC invites teens to create and submit a PSA-type video promoting reading and library use to other teens. * Each video needs to include the teen/teen team's interpretation of the 2019 CSLP theme, A Universe of Stories. * Videos need to adhere to copyright law and be appropriate for all ages. * Each of the 5 winning teens/teen teams will receive a $200 cash prize and the winners' local libraries will each receive a $50 gift certificate from Upstart. Now, for the changes: * Instead of state winners, there will be 5 national winners (this means that teens will submit videos directly to the national judging panel without having to go through State Reps). * CSLP will accept submissions June 1-Aug 2, 2019, so that the program can be incorporated into summer programs (it's still a great opportunity to partner with schools with video production classes or clubs; students can produce the videos as a class project and submit them in June!). * Videos [accepted] will be up to 60 seconds long. * Permission and model release forms won't be required until the finalists are selected, who will then need to supply the forms, completed correctly, to be able to win. The only form required upfront will be a simple online submission form. * The TVC Ad-Hoc Committee will convene a judging panel from CSLP partners and members. * Video uploads will not be limited to YouTube and Vimeo; rather, teens can upload their creations to the social media outlet of their choice. These changes were crafted to make the contest simpler for public librarians to promote and administer, and simpler too for teens to enter. Hopefully these changes will boost interest and participation in the contest and make it more accessible for all involved. Soon there will be additional resources about the 2019 TVC on the CSLP website for public librarians to use to more easily promote the contest to teens, including the submission form, a program logo, flyer, social media blurbs, and additional tools. Thanks, The TVC Ad-Hoc Committee Cathy Lancaster Youth Services Coordinator Library of Michigan 702 W. Kalamazoo St. Lansing, MI 48915 LancasterC5@michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5@michigan.gov> | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan<http://www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan> Follow us: Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/libraryofmichigan/> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/libraryofmich> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/libraryofmichigan/>