Calling all readers and artists in Wake County: There's a chance to make your mark on the local library scene. Wake County Public Libraries is rolling out a bookmark contest linked to their 2025 Summer Reading Program, and they're looking for designs that can "Color Our World." Creative individuals can swoop by their nearest branch, grab an entry form, and submit their artwork in person by the end of March. According to an announcement from the Wake County government, winners will find their designs printed and available across all 23 library locations come summer.
Crafters from any age bracket can throw their hat into the ring, with four age-defined categories established: ages 3–6, 7–12, 13–17, and adults 18 years and older. “Summer is always an exciting time of year at our libraries, and this contest is a great way to get even more people involved,” Susan Evans, chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners, told the press. The winning designs in each category aren't just going to be appreciated, but thoroughly distributed for bookmark users to forevermore enjoy wherever books may open.
Wake County Public Libraries has a history of stirring up community involvement and encouraging creative engagement. This contest appears to build directly on that dynamic. Participants are given the opportunity to intimately engage with a love for literature and art that distinctly resonates within the local cultural fabric. Libraries act as custodians of stories and knowledge; this contest allows patrons to literally hold a piece of that narrative in the palm of their hand.
As entries pour in, a panel of librarians will be tasked to sift through the submissions and select the winning bookmarks that will colorfully adorn the pages of summer readers. “We hope this inspires people of all ages to express their creativity and share their love of reading with the community,” Evans suggested, indicating the broader objective is to highlight the mutual joy reading can bring to the everyone. Creatives should remember to hand in their designs by March's end; this ensures your submission will be reviewed—and possibly chosen to brighten up bookworm activities during those lazy, hazy, long summer days, as per Wake County's release.
