The Robinson Public Library is proud to announce the inaugural Why I Love the Library Art and Essay Contest, honoring a remarkable milestone in Crawford County history: the 50th anniversary of the Robinson Public Library at their 606 N. Jefferson location.
For five decades, the Robinson Public Library has inspired countless residents – young and old – to explore the world through reading. Since opening its doors in June 1976, the Robinson Public Library has strived to offer the very best literary selection available. Whether it’s a work of fiction or non-fiction, adult or adolescent — the Robinson Public Library has strived to go above and beyond expectations of a library situated in a small east central Illinois community.
Our contest invites artists and writers of all ages to reflect on the library’s enduring legacy. Participants are encouraged to create original artwork or essays that celebrate:
• A favorite moment
• A book that captured their imagination or inspired them in a meaningful way
• A staff member or volunteer that encouraged them to read or provided them with aid in a project or assignment
• The history and impact of the library over the past 50 years
Behind every visit is an interaction that might have inspired the contestant to develop a passion for reading; assisted with an important school project; or simply provided a place to hang out and socialize with friends over a good book.
Through creativity and storytelling, this contest aims to honor not only the impact of the library, but also the values that sustain it — innovation, inclusion, and service to the community.
The Why I Love the Library Art and Essay Contest hopes to become a cherished annual tradition, showcasing the remarkable talents of our community while deepening the appreciation for our library’s history. Each submission adds a new perspective to the story of reading, reminding us that inspiration often lies just inside the covers of a good book.
As we commemorate 50 years of the Robinson Public Library, we invite students, artists, and writers to help us celebrate this extraordinary chapter in Crawford County history. Through your efforts, your tribute can capture the energy, pride, and dedication that have defined the Robinson Public Library for generations.
Join us in honoring 50 years of excellence. Let your creativity take flight.
Categories:
The Why I Love the Library contest is divided into several categories, ensuring that all participants, regardless of age or skill level, have the chance to showcase their work:
· Art (Ages 5 to 7)
· Art (Ages 8 to 10)
· Art (Ages 11 to 14)
· Art (Ages 15 to 18)
· Art (Ages 19 and Up)
· Essay/Poem (Ages 11 to 18)
Prizes and Recognition:
There will be ribbons awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners in each category. Additionally:
· Winners’ submissions will be displayed at the Robinson Public Library for at least six months beginning in June 2026.
· First-place winners in each category will receive a $100 gift card.
Submission Deadline is April 30, 2026
Submission Guidelines and Details can be found below:
1. All content must be original and created by the contestant. Submissions generated by AI will not be allowed.
2. All art must be created using only pencils, paints, charcoal, or markers. Three-dimensional art pieces, photography, and digital art are ineligible. Glitter, mats and frames are not permitted on any art pieces.
3. Art must be 11” x 17” or smaller.
4. Contestant Name, Title of Submission, Age, and School (if applicable) must be printed legibly/typed on back of art submissions and at the top of essay submissions.
5. All content submitted will be returned following announcement of the winners, with the exception of the winning submissions, which will be displayed at the Robinson Public Library for at least six months beginning in June 2026..
6. Entry form must be complete, printed legibly, and it must accompany the submission.
7. Contestants cannot submit more than one piece of content for any one of the categories, but contestants ages 11-18 can submit one work for art and one work for essay/poem.
Judging and Deadline:
1. Content will be separated and judged in the following age groups: 5 to 7 art, 8 to 10 art, 11 to 14 art, 15 to 18 art, 19 and up art and 11 to 18 essay/poem.
2. Content will be judged on originality and relevance to and communication of the theme.
3. Deadline for submission is 11:59 pm April 30, 2026.
4. Please submit original art via traditional mail or in-person to the Robinson Public Library (606 N. Jefferson St.). Digital submissions are not allowed for art. Essays/poems can be submitted via email to robinsonlibrarydistrict@hotmail.com. Please include Anniversary Essay Contest in the subject heading.
5. Both hard copy and digital submissions are allowed for essays. Submissions will be checked for plagiarism.
6. Ribbons will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners in each category.
7. First, second, and third place winners’ submissions will be displayed at the Robinson Public Library for at least 6 months beginning in June 2026.
8. First place winners in each category will receive $100 gift cards.
9. Open to contestants that: attend a Crawford County school or are homeschooled but reside in Crawford County; if no longer a student, reside in Crawford County.