The Libris History Prize (formerly known as Great History Prize and Historisch Nieuwsblad/Volkskrant Prize) rewards history books originally written in Dutch, that appeal to a general audience. Originality, readability and historical soundness are the most important criteria.[1] Established in 2007, it is awarded annually since 2009 by Libris, an association of independent Dutch booksellers, and amounts to €20,000 for the winner.[2][3] All applications go through a selection process out of which a longlist of ten books are selected and announced.[4] Subsequently, another selection round takes place which nominates a shortlist of the five best books.[5] The author of each shortlisted book receives €1,500.[6] Typically, the (independent) jury's selection is discussed and criticized in the Dutch press.[7]
The prize is an initiative of Historisch Nieuwsblad, Libris, the Netherlands Open Air Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the NPS/VPRO and de Volkskrant.[8]
The Libris History Prize is the (historical) non-fiction prize in the Netherlands, while the Libris Literature Award rewards works of fiction.[9]