Reading Pride x Reading Public Library

Library Card Design Contest

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Berks Pride Fest, Reading Pride and the Reading Public Library are proud to partner on a community art contest featuring the creativity, diversity, and spirit of Berks County’s LGBTQ+ community.

Local artists are invited to submit original artwork for a chance to have their design featured on an official Reading Public Library card and keytag.

Whether you are a professional artist, student, hobbyist, or creative community member, we encourage you to share your vision through art that reflects queer joy, inclusion, community, and authenticity.

🎨 Contest Overview

Open to Berks County residents ages 13+
Individual and group submissions are welcome
One submission per individual or group
Artwork should reflect the LGBTQ+ community and/or Reading Pride’s mission and values
The selected artwork will be featured on official Reading Public Library cards and keytags

📅 Important Dates

Submissions Open: June 1, 2026
Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
Community Voting: July 1 – July 19, 2026
Recognition Event: August 29, 2026 at the Reading Public Library Main Branch

🖌️ Submission Guidelines

Artwork must be original
Digital artwork should be created or scanned at a minimum of 300 DPI
JPG and PNG formats are accepted for initial submissions
Final selected artwork must be provided as a print-ready PDF in CMYK color format
Artists should focus primarily on the full-size library card design, but are encouraged to also include a suggested keytag adaptation or crop

🗳️ Community Voting

Community members will have the opportunity to support their favorite designs through online voting during the month of July.

Votes are $1 each
Individuals may vote as many times as they would like
Proceeds help support:
- Printing the library cards
- Contest prizes
- Contest administration and related expenses

🏆 Awards & Recognition

The selected design will:

Be featured on official Reading Public Library cards and keytags
Receive a $50 gift card
Be recognized by Reading Pride and the Reading Public Library online and at the Recognition Event

Additional finalists will also receive recognition and prizes.

❤️ About Reading Pride

Reading Pride’s mission is to support LGBTQ+ individuals through advocacy, education, and community engagement — celebrating our history, empowering our future, and ensuring everyone can live openly, authentically, and safely.

We believe in fostering queer joy, inclusion, creativity, and community throughout Berks County.