Library Card Design Contest 2026

Adventure Awaits....at the Library!

October 15- November 15, 2026

What adventures have you had at the Library? Stories you've read, new skills you've learned, or worlds you've imagined? In our inaugural library card design contest, share your illustration of a journey you've gone on through the Cambridge Public Library.

Starting on October 15, if you live, work, or go to school in Cambridge, submit your original designs to be featured on new, limited-edition library cards to come in 2027. One adult and one youth winner will see their design featured on library cards and be selected for a grand prize. Finalists will be displayed in the Library and featured on our website and social media.

All entrants must agree to the Photo/Create Works Release and submit their designs online by Sunday, November 15 at 5 p.m. Only complete entries will be reviewed. If chosen as a winner, CPL will contact you directly. Winners will have the opportunity to be featured alongside their design.

Submit your design here.

Rules:

• The Cambridge Public Library Card Design Contest is open to Minuteman Library Network cardholders who live, work, or attend school in Cambridge. Don’t have a card yet? You can sign up for a free eCard online or visit any Minuteman Library to get one.
• Cambridge Public Library employees and any other City of Cambridge employee who participates in administering, reviewing, judging, or selecting finalists or winners for the contest are not eligible to enter. Other City of Cambridge employees may participate if they otherwise meet the contest eligibility requirements.
• Entries must be submitted through the official application form, and must include an agreement to the Creative Works Release and License below. Only complete entries will be reviewed.
• The submitted entry must be the creative and original work of a single individual. No AI-generated content will be allowed.
• Submissions may not include any identifiable individual(s).
• Artwork must be submitted as a high resolution (300 dpi) and may consist of digitally created artwork, photography, or artwork created using physical art materials and uploaded digitally.
• Designs should reflect the following library card dimensions: 3 3/8 inches wide x 2 1/8 inches high (approximately a 1.59:1 aspect ratio). The optional template includes a 1/8 inch bleed. 
• One entry per contestant.
• The deadline to submit card design entries is Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM
• Only winners and finalists will be notified directly of contest results.