The Brooklyn Public Library is asking artists to submit designs for a new limited-edition library card in celebration of Juneteenth 2021.
The new card — which will be the first in the “Celebrating Heritage” series — will honor Black American culture and history. Artists ages 13 and older must submit their proposed design along with an artist statement and entry form by January 31.
There’s no restrictions regarding the submission’s medium, but all artwork must be submitted digitally and fit within the size of a regular library card and a key fob card. Preference will be given to artists with a connection to Brooklyn.
A panel of Brooklyn Public Library staff and community stakeholders will narrow the submissions down to a group of finalists before choosing the winning design. The winner receive a $2,000 stipend, and the work of all the finalists may be displayed as an exhibition.
The idea behind the project was first proposed by Bedford-Stuyvesant’s Macon Library as a way to raise awareness for the African American Heritage Center. Patrons will then be able to acquire the limited-edition card at any Brooklyn branch that issues library cards.
Details about the submission requirements can be found online on the Brooklyn Public Library’s website.
This article first appeared on Brownstoner.com.
