#Express Yourself, Win Prizes

Feeling creative? Want to make an impact? Help us promote a discussion about censorship, book challenges, and the freedom to read that centers teen voices just like yours! All you have to do is draw, paint, collage or otherwise create a square piece of artwork inspired by the American Library Association’s 2023 theme – Let Freedom Read – and join us at a Teen Advisory Board meeting from September 25 through October 6 for a chance to win prizes and showcase your talent!

Email JPLYouthservices@coj.net for an entry form (or pick on up at your local library). For more information about Banned Books Week at the Library or ALA's 2023 theme, visit bannedbooksweek.org. 

Rules and Instructions:

You can use whatever materials you like. However, the finished artwork must fit on a square canvas (of at least 1080x1080 pixels). You'll submit that, along with your name, age, email address (or phone number), the title of the artwork, and a short statement about what (or who) inspired you. 

Note: ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) tracks attempts to ban or restrict access to books across the United States and informs the public about censorship efforts in libraries and schools. According to OIF, "A challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials."

Important Dates and Details:

• Join us at Teen Advisory Board from September 25–October 6.
• Vote for your favorite on Instagram October 10–15.

Prizes Up for Grabs:

• The top winner gets a $25 Chamblin’s gift card and a “Read Banned Books” tumbler.
• Two runners-up receive a kit to personalize their own tote bags.
• All three winning designs will be printed on bookmarks.