The Eric Hoffer Award for independent books recognizes excellence in publishing with a $2,000 grand prize and various category honors and press type distinctions, as well as the winners of the Montaigne Medal, da Vinci Eye, and First Horizon Award. The book awards are covered in the US Review of Books. After the contest, books are donated to libraries, schools, and hospitals where appropriate.

Books must be from academic, independent, small press, and self-published authors. Anyone (including the author) can submit one or more books for the Eric Hoffer Award. Printed and e-books are accepted.