We are especially interested in stories that take the familiar in unfamiliar directions. We want to showcase fresh, inventive, and well crafted tales from writers who breathe life into their work and take us on a journey.
At this time we are not interested in fan-fiction or previously published works.
We do accept simultaneous submissions, but ask that you let us know immediately if your work is to be published elsewhere.
*Authors retain all ownership of their work. The Yard Lab prints with your permission.
Please make sure to include your contact info on your document.
We will not be able to respond to submissions not containing an email address.
PDF & Docx files are preferred.
The Lab:2024 Anthology
​ Open Call for Submissions As we usher in a new creative season, we're thrilled to announce that The Lab is compiling its next print anthology, The Lab:2024. We invite you, our incredibly talented community, to submit your short stories for an opportunity to be published in this special edition. ​ What We're Looking For We welcome submissions from all genres and styles—no specific theme required. Whether you specialize in gripping thrillers, heartfelt dramas, or whimsical tales, we aim to showcase a diverse range of voices. Submission Guidelines Word Count: Submissions should range from 1,500 to 10,000 words. Formatting: Submit your work as a Word document, double-spaced, in 12-point Times New Roman font. Deadline: The last day for submissions is November 30th, 2023. Submission Fee: There is a $5 processing fee for each submission. This fee serves as a tip to our dedicated team of readers and helps cover costs related to archiving and legal considerations. Submission Portal: Please send your submissions through The Lab:2024 Anthology submission form. Benefits Selected contributors will not only see their work published in The Lab:2024, but will also receive an honorarium of $50 to $100. It's a wonderful chance to gain exposure while earning a modest compensation for your creative efforts. Why the Submission Fee? The $5 fee assists in supporting our team of readers who invest time and care into reviewing each submission. It also helps cover archival and legal expenses to ensure the anthology's long-term success. Final Thoughts Whether you're a seasoned author or a first-time writer, your unique voice enriches the tapestry of stories we wish to present to the world. We look forward to being enchanted, moved, and inspired by your literary contributions. If you have any questions please reach out to team@theyardlab.com We look forward to reading your work! The Editorial Team  The Yard Lab