Given annually to a publication judged to be the best book in the field of ethnic textile studies, the award consists of a cash prize funded by an endowment established by R.L. Shep in 2000. The purpose of this award is to encourage the study and understanding of textile traditions by recognizing and rewarding exceptional scholarship. Books are reviewed by the R. L. Shep Award Committee.

Nominations are open to English language books (including bi or multi lingual publications in which all essential information appears in English). For the purpose of the award, “ethnic” textiles are defined as the non-industrial textiles of Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Native and Latin America, as well as those of identifiable cultural groups in Europe and North America. Books on subjects closely related to textiles (such as dyeing, basketry, costume design, etc.) may be nominated and will be considered based on their centrality to the intent of the award as judged by the Award Committee. Books of a variety of formats, including monographs, anthologies, and exhibition catalogs may be nominated.

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