Toronto Public Library (TPL) today announced the winners of its annual Design a Bookmark contest, celebrating the creativity and imagination of young people across the city. This year's contest drew more than 4,600 submissions from children ages four to 13 at library branches citywide.
From thousands of entries, a panel of judges selected 16 winners in total: 12 Grand Award Winners recognized for theme, originality, and design; and four Elizabeth Cleaver Award winners, honouring outstanding artistic merit and unique design. This year's winning bookmarks feature animals, nature scenes, abstract art and books.
Free bookmarks available at all TPL branches and beyond
The 16 winning bookmarks are now available at all 100 TPL branches and on the Bookmobile. The bookmarks are also being distributed through community partners including SickKids Hospital (The Family Centre) and St. Michael's Hospital, bringing a little art and joy beyond library branches.
"Every year, this contest fills us with joy. With more than 4,600 entries this year, it's clear that Toronto's children have extraordinary creativity to share. We're proud to share their art with the entire city, and beyond," said Moe Hosseini-Ara, City Librarian at Toronto Public Library.
Artists share their inspiration
Elizabeth Cleaver (1939–1985) was one of the first Canadians to illustrate children’s picture books. Known for her unique and colourful collages, she received many awards for her illustrations.
This year’s four Elizabeth Cleaver Award winners share their inspiration:
Brielle Parlee, age 8
"I was inspired by my East Coast road trip this past summer. We visited my mom's friend's cottage in Nova Scotia and I really enjoyed the beach there. It has a lot of wildlife there such as sandpipers, mussels, starfish, hermit crabs and seals. I hope people who use this bookmark can have this memory too."
Ngurah “Rahde” Devandra Paramarta, age 13
“The young astronaut reads the finite book, The Book of Everything, symbolizing the world’s curiosity, and the idea that knowledge exists between what we know and the mysteries that remain.”
Océane Ding-Muller, age 11
“I had this idea of being in a magical forest, where the flowers would light up and the leaves would sing.” Océane also made flying peas in the sky, who asked her to read the book to them.
Zoé Lin, age 10
“During winter, rabbits often hide underground, especially in the very cold weather. While they are underground, they probably don’t have much to do, so why not read a book to escape the cold?”
About the Design a Bookmark Contest
The Design a Bookmark contest invites children from across the city to submit original artwork each fall. Branch staff review local entries and select finalists for consideration by the Design a Bookmark judging committee. Winners are selected across two award categories and announced each spring.
About Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library is a gathering place for people and ideas, with 100 branches citywide and rich online services. More than 80% of Torontonians use their library, finding space to read, learn, create and connect in their communities. From literacy and skills development to technology access and cultural experiences, we're here to help all Torontonians thrive. To learn more, visit tpl.ca.