Contest draws attention to National Library Week

Discovery seventh-grader Jasmyn Gellineau created “iPads.” (CONTRIBUTED)

Discovery eighth-grader Shandi Burrows envisioned a “Teen Room.” (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – To commemorate National Library Week on April 13-19, residents used posters to express their priorities about library expansion.

“The ‘Library Now, Library Tomorrow’ poster contest is a great way to get the subject of the library into the community and schools,” youth services librarian Maggie Allen said. With expansion planned in upcoming years, librarians like to reach out for individuals’ input on new facilities.

Among elementary-age students, Janae Slade in sixth grade at Madison Elementary School was first-place winner for “Glad for iPads.” Lilly Butler, a third-grader at St. John’s Catholic School, earned second place for “Things I Want in My Library.” Madison elementary fifth-grader Isaiah Slade earned third with “Game Room for the Library.”

Liz Mora, a Discovery Middle School eighth-grader, won with “Teen Reading Corner” in the middle-school entries. “You could tell Liz really already is a library user,” Allen said. “Liz wanted more technology but also made a special point to add electrical outlets all over. We were impressed that she was paying attention to our current building.”

Discovery seventh-grader Jasmyn Gellineau took second with a colorful display for “iPads”. Discovery eighth-grader Shandi Burrows was third with “Teen Room.”

Adult winners were Liz Butler, first, “Madison at Midtown”; Tamara Slade, second, “All Around the World”; and David Butler, third, “Things I Want in My Library.”

Common requests were more books and librarians, snacks and children’s garden upgrades. The top request was a tie between more space to relax/work and coffee, Allen said.

Branch manager Sarah Sledge said contestants’ wishes are consistent with information gathered by consultant Toni Garvey with Providence Associates. With community and city hall’s support, Sledge and the library staff are optimistic about fulfilling the community’s wishes.

Madison Public Library has 25,000 visitors monthly, but the staff welcomes public input. “Hearing from (patrons) makes our job much easier. That way, we know we’re providing what they want,” Sledge said.

Mayor Troy Trulock presented certificates and prizes to winners at the City Council meeting on April 14.