Lincoln kids will compete to design new library card

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Lincoln City Libraries has partnered with Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird to launch a library card design contest and a new summer reading theme designed to encourage families to get involved with the community.

Gaylor Baird said in a press conference Thursday morning that the City of Lincoln wants to help kids foster creativity.

“Kids, grab your crayons and colored pencils and help us put your art in everyone’s wallet,” she said.

For the first time in 35 years, the libraries are changing the design of their classic blue cards to artwork that is submitted by Lincoln youths.

The contest is open for children up until age 11, and kids are encouraged to think outside of the box to create a new library card, which will be released in September.

The contest is open from Friday until June 30, and the designs can be submitted through the Lincoln City Library website or can be dropped off at any library.

Traci Glass, the assistant director of the Lincoln City Libraries, said that in July, officials will sort through the designs and release the top three for a public vote in August.

“This contest is an opportunity for young artists to showcase their talents and leave a lasting impression on our library system,” Glass said. “Young people are real stakeholders in our libraries, and this is a chance for them to express what they love about their library and what it has to offer.”

Effective immediately, the libraries are waving the $1 card replacement fee so current members can upgrade to the new design at no cost.

“This is the very first time Lincoln youth may submit their artistic designs for a chance to be featured on an official Lincoln City Library card,” Glass said.

She said the library has already had 6,800 new registrations this year, and officials hope the contest will create even more interest.

In addition to the card design contest, Lincoln City Libraries is also hosting its annual summer reading challenge.

Library Director Ryan Weber said there is a tremendous amount of participation expected this year, with 16,000 kids and adults participating.

“This year’s theme of ‘All Together Now’ celebrates and reflects our community, our differences and our togetherness,” he said. “By creating a community of readers, we make connections. We grow empathy towards one another, imagine new possibilities, and even just relax and have fun together.”

The program starts on Friday and runs until July 31. Everyone who signs up will receive a free Saltdogs ticket.

By completing the reading goals, kids and adults will have the opportunity to get more prizes, such as a book bag and even gift cards for free food.

“When our kids were growing up, my wife, Molly, and I knew how important it was for them to be readers,” Weber said. “But we also love the community building that took place when our kids connected with other kids who were beginning their careers as readers.”

The library is hosting a summer reading kickoff party on Thursday, June 1.

The party will be held at Eisley, Anderson, Gere, Walt and Bennett Martin Public Libraries and will consist of crafts and games for community members to enjoy.

Anyone is welcome, and people are encouraged to sign up for the summer reading program at the party.