Battle of the Books
In the spring of 2026, each branch partners with local schools to host Battle of the Books. There are three different age groups to participate in:
- Elementary school, fourth and fifth grades
- Middle school, sixth through eighth grades
- High school, ninth through 12th grades
Elementary and Middle School Competitions
Elementary and Middle School Battle of the Books are fun reading competitions where students read from a list of 10 books (see titles below) and answer trivia questions. Schools must form teams of five along with an adult coach representative, preferably a teacher or media specialist. Each Baltimore County Public Library branch will facilitate a battle for local schools to compete against each other. To enroll, confirm with your nearest branch by Friday, October 17.
Elementary School Battle of the Books Titles
Middle School Battle of the Books Titles
High School Competitions
High School Battle of the Books encourages individual teens to submit a work of expressive art (written work, image, audio or video) based on one of the 10 selected titles for high schoolers. Each project submission includes an artist's statement to include the participant's creative process and personal interpretation or reflection of the chosen book.
Each branch chooses a winning submission to compete in the countywide battle. All teens, ages 13 to 19, are encouraged to participate. Teachers, media specialists and homeschool instructors (public or private) may register to participate and provide guidance to students.
Interested students should contact their nearest branch by Friday, October 17, to register and confirm participation.
High School Battle of the Books All Titles and Formats
Project Tips and Book Buzz Playlist
Watch our Book Buzz videos about each book title and learn tips for submitting your project.
2025 High School Competition Winner
Meet Tabatha and learn more about her winning project.