Local artists and library enthusiasts are being spotlighted after Wake County Public Libraries announced the winners of its bookmark design contest—a colorful celebration of reading and creativity in the community. The library revealed the four winning submissions, each selected from a pool of over 1,000 entries by a panel comprising library staff and Library Commission members.
The winners, chosen across different age groups, bring a diverse flavor to the bookmarks that will soon be distributed at the 23 library locations in the county, the winners are Sam Greene from Cary Regional Library representing the Adult category, Teen category winner Yuemei Wang from Holly Springs Community Library, School Age category's Chloe Seo hailing from Leesville Community Library and little Quincy Baynes from Eva Perry Regional Library capturing the Young Child age group.
Each bookmark reflects a unique artistic vision, guaranteed to accompany countless summer reads. In a statement obtained by Wake County's official website, Commissioner Tara Waters shared her enthusiasm, stating, "These remarkable designs reflect the creativity and love of reading found throughout our community." Waters went on to express her hopes for the contest's role in stirring both creativity and a shared love of reading as summer approaches.
Not only will the designs become a part of the 2025 Summer Reading Program but each winning artist will receive 20 printed copies of their bookmark, a printed poster and have the honor of being recognized at a special reception; this added incentive serves as a celebration of local talent, and as an outreach initiative that encourages others to explore their own artistic capabilities.
