The Kentucky Writers Hall of Fame was created to recognize Kentucky writers whose work reflects the character and culture of our commonwealth, and to educate Kentuckians about our state’s rich literary heritage. For a writer to have been eligible this year, they must be 1) published; 2) someone whose writing is of enduring stature; and 3) someone connected in a significant way to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Inductees are chosen by committees at the Carnegie Center and the Kentucky Arts Council that include some of Kentucky's well-known writers. Nominations are accepted from the public.

2024 INDUCTEES

Photo by Tom Eblen
Portrait of Loyal Jones, '54. Jones is an accomplished author, Appalachian scholar, and the former Director of the Appalachian Center at Berea College which was renamed the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center in his honor. Taken 20100415.

2021 INDUCTEES

Photo by Forrest Clonts
Photo by Terry Price
Photo: Alex Remnick/Random House
Photo: UK Special Collections

2020 INDUCTEES

Sena Jeter Naslund at her home on Louisville’s St. James Court, 2019. Photo by Tom Eblen.
Undated portrait. Photo courtesy of Yale University.
Sam Shepard in Steel Magnolias, 1989. Photo by Rastar Films.

Kentucky Literary Impact Award

The Kentucky Literary Impact Award recognizes someone who has made great contributions to the state’s literary culture, but not necessarily as a writer.  The award was inaugurated in 2020 and will be made only occasionally.

Gray Zeitz
Gray Zeitz

The Carnegie Center is home to writers, lifelong learners, & the Kentucky Writers Hall of Fame. We hope to see you soon!

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