For the first time, students who are home-schooled or attend a school that does not participate in the election can cast votes for the William Allen White Children’s Book Award at the Lawrence Public Library.

Students grades three through eight may vote through April 8 at the library’s children’s room.

Eligible voters cannot have voted at school and need to have read at least two of the nominated books.

A list of books is available at the library, 707 Vt., or www.emporia.edu/libsv/nom0003.htm.

The William Allen White Award began at Emporia State University in 1952. Children across the state vote for their favorites out of a list of 10 to 12 nominated books.

The awards are given in October.