Preserving Authentic Voices in an Artificial World
AI can write words — but not truth.
In a world overflowing with AI-generated content, it’s getting harder for readers to know what’s real. The Verified Texas Author Program (VTAP), created by the Texas Authors Museum, helps real Texas writers stand apart by verifying authentic human authorship and preserving their legacy for generations to come.
What the Program Is About
VTAP gives readers confidence that your stories come from experience, emotion, and truth — not algorithms. Through a simple, respectful verification process, authors confirm their identity, Texas connection, and authorship while joining the Museum’s growing archive of verified voices.
Our mission:
To honor genuine Texas authors and protect the integrity of human storytelling in the age of AI.
What You Get
Every verified author receives:
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An official Verified Texas Author Certificate (digital + mailed copy)
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Listing in the Texas Authors Museum Archive (digital and/or physical)
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The right to display the Verified Texas Author logo on your book covers, website, and marketing materials
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A short, one-on-one Zoom or in-person verification session confirming your authorship
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Optional inclusion in promotional features, social media campaigns, and museum exhibits
Members of the Texas Authors Museum save up to 50%, and Level 4 Members receive Gold Verification free.
Why It Matters
AI has blurred the line between real and fake authorship.
VTAP exists to restore trust between readers and writers by ensuring authenticity, transparency, and ethical storytelling.
When you display your Verified Texas Author badge, you’re saying:
“My stories come from lived experience — not artificial intelligence.”
How the Process Works
Step 1: Apply by Emailing us at
Complete a short application form and sign the Ethics & Authorship Pledge.
Step 2: Verify Your Work
Provide proof of publication (ISBN, publisher link, or equivalent).
Step 3: Meet a Real Person
Schedule a brief Zoom verification or meet us at a live Texas Authors Museum event.
Step 4: Get Certified
Receive your digital certificate immediately and your physical certificate by mail within two weeks.
Verification lasts for three years and can be renewed easily.
Pricing & Tiers
| Tier | Non-Member Price | Member Price (Level 3–4) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $75 | $40 | Signed ethics pledge and Texas connection confirmation. |
| Silver | $125 | $65 | Includes Bronze benefits + work verification and mailed certificate. |
| Gold | $175 | $85 | Includes Silver benefits + live video verification and archive highlight. |
Level 4 members receive Gold verification FREE.
Each tier includes digital and/or mailed certificates (with postage included.
Why Choose VTAP Over Other Services
Unlike online seals or self-verified memberships, VTAP offers:
✅ Human verification — every author is personally confirmed by museum staff.
✅ Cultural credibility — backed by the Texas Authors Museum, a trusted institution.
✅ Archival preservation — your verified status and work become part of Texas literary history.
✅ Regional pride — recognition as an authentic Texas storyteller.
✅ Clear “No AI” stance — we verify human creativity, not machine-generated output
Our Pledge on AI
The Texas Authors Museum recognizes that some authors use AI for grammar, formatting, or idea organization — that’s fine. But full AI-generated writing is not eligible for verification.
Our goal is to celebrate the human spirit of storytelling and protect creative authenticity in an increasingly artificial world.
Ready to Be Verified?
Take your place among the authentic voices of Texas.
The process is quick, professional, and meaningful — and your verification becomes part of the Museum’s permanent record.
Apply today at: TexasAuthorsMuseum.org/Verified
Or email us at
No AI can fake Texas heart.
Be a Verified Texas Author.
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