News & Blog

For two decades, UCF Libraries Special Collections & University Archives has celebrated creativity, innovation, and artistic expression through its annual Student Book Arts Competition. Established by former Special Collections Head Ellen Anderson, the competition invites UCF students to push the boundaries of the book form by creating original, one-of-a-kind artist’s books.

But what exactly is an artist’s book? More than a book in the traditional sense, an artist’s book is a work of art in its own right—a handcrafted creation that embodies the maker’s unique vision. These works blend a variety of artistic practices, including storytelling, drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, and personal text, transforming the a traditional book into an engaging and often unexpected artistic experience.

This year’s exhibition showcases an inspiring range of formats, concepts, and techniques, highlighting the remarkable creativity and talent of UCF students. From innovative structures to compelling narratives and striking visual designs, each piece reflects the vibrant spirit of book arts fostered by Special Collections & University Archives.

All submissions are carefully evaluated by a panel of judges on the basis of content, creativity, design, and craftsmanship. The winning artist’s book will be announced later this month, celebrating excellence in this dynamic and evolving art form.

The exhibit runs from June 1 – 30, 2026 at the John C. Hitt Library 4th Floor Gallery.

To look more in depth at past competitions go to: stars.library.ucf.edu/bookartscompetition

Hello! My name is Alyssa Adkins, and I am a junior at the University of Central Florida working toward my bachelor’s in history. During the Fall 2025 semester, I was given the amazing opportunity to be the Processing Intern and work with UCF Libraries’ Special Collection & University Archives (SCUA) team. My work consisted of processing three collections: the Richard Crepeau U.S. Bicentennial collection, the UCF International Student Association collection, and the UCF Office of Global Perspectives & International Initiatives records. 

The 19th Annual Student Book Arts Competition celebrates the remarkable creativity and craftsmanship of students who transformed the traditional book form into stunning works of art. This year’s competition saw a record-breaking number of submissions, with 22 unique artist books entered—each offering a fresh perspective on what a book can be.

A distinguished panel of judges—Orlando-based artist and Book Arts Guild of Central Florida instructor Meghan Medina, and David Benjamin, Head of Special Collections & University Archives—had the difficult task of selecting the winner based on design, craftsmanship, and artistic vision.

Hello, everyone! My name is Emily English, and I’m a junior at the University of Central Florida pursuing my BA in History. This Spring 2025 semester, I was granted the opportunity to work as a Processing Intern with UCF’s Special Collections & University Archives (SCUA).

Hello, everyone! My name is Sofia Arias, a senior graduating with my bachelor’s in history this semester at UCF. This Fall 2024 semester I was able to join the University of Central Florida’s Special Collection & University Archives (SCUA) team as the processing intern.