Library seeks artist for Summer Reading design
Published 1:30 am Thursday, January 29, 2026
The North Olympic Library System (NOLS) is seeking to hire an artist to design a graphic for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge T-shirt and tote bag. Applicants should complete the online form at NOLS.org/T-Shirt and share examples of prior artwork, ideally including an example of a one-color graphic. Submissions are due Monday, Feb. 9.
The selected artist will receive a $500 stipend to create a new design inspired by the 2026 program theme, “Plant a Seed, Read.” Rooted in the farm-to-table concept, the theme highlights how a farm grows food that nourishes our bodies, and a library grows ideas that nourish our minds.
During NOLS’ Summer Reading Challenge, participants who read for 30 days can choose a T-shirt or tote bag featuring the new design. Some readers have been collecting the limited-edition shirts every year since they were first introduced as prizes in 2016. The tote bag option was added in 2025. The all-ages challenge makes it fun to track personal reading goals and keeps kids excited about reading while school is out, complementing the library’s lineup of engaging, theme-based summer programs.
For more information, visit NOLS.org/T-Shirt. The Summer Reading Program is supported by local Friends of the Library groups.
