From Reading Pride, Reading Public Library
Photo courtesy of Cecilie Bomstad on Unsplash
Reading Pride and the Reading Public Library are inviting local artists to participate in a Library Card Design Contest celebrating the 20th anniversary of Berks Pride Fest.
The contest offers Berks County residents ages 13 and older an opportunity to create original artwork that reflects the LGBTQ+ community, Reading Pride’s mission and values, and the diversity and spirit of Berks County. The selected design will be featured on an official Reading Public Library card and keytag, creating a lasting symbol of inclusion, creativity, and community.
Submissions are now being accepted through July 12. Individual artists and groups are welcome to participate, with one submission permitted per individual or group.
“This contest is an opportunity for our community to tell its story through art,” said Sean Flannery, President of Reading Pride. “As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Berks Pride Fest, we wanted to create something lasting that reflects the creativity, resilience, and joy of LGBTQ+ people throughout Berks County. We’re excited to partner with the Reading Public Library to showcase local talent and create a library card that represents our community for years to come.”
Artwork will be displayed online, and community voting will take place through July 19. Community members will be able to support their favorite designs through online voting, with proceeds helping offset the cost of printing the library cards, contest prizes, and other contest-related expenses.
A panel of five judges — including representatives from Reading Pride, Reading Public Library, and community members — will evaluate submissions based on creativity, originality, visual impact, community representation, and suitability for use as a library card design.
The selected artist or artist group will receive a $50.00 gift card, recognition through Reading Pride and Reading Public Library communications, and the opportunity to have their design featured on official library cards distributed throughout the community. Three additional finalists will each receive a $25.00 gift card and public recognition.
The winning design will be unveiled during a Recognition Event at the Reading Public Library Main Branch on Aug. 29.
Artists can view the complete contest guidelines and submit their artwork online at readingpride.org/librarycard.
For additional information about Reading Public Library services and programs, visit readingpubliclibrary.org.
About Reading Pride
Reading Pride is a nonprofit organization serving Berks County’s LGBTQ+ community through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Its mission is to celebrate LGBTQ+ history, empower future generations, and help ensure everyone can live openly, authentically, and safely.
About Reading Public Library
Reading Public Library provides free access to information, resources, educational opportunities, and cultural experiences that enrich the lives of residents throughout the community.
