Columbia City, Indiana, is buzzing with excitement as the Peabody Public Library marks its 125th anniversary with a creative card design contest. Open to all ages, the event invites community members to submit artwork that could grace official library cards, running from December 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026.

Contest Details and How to Join

The library has set up the contest to celebrate its long history of fostering community ties through books, learning, and shared moments. Director Mike Ashby highlighted how this initiative captures the spirit of connection that has defined the library for over a century.

Entries are divided into three age groups to ensure fair judging. Participants can submit designs that reflect personal creativity or library themes. The winning pieces will be printed on new library cards, giving artists a lasting spot in the community’s daily life.

To enter, visit the library’s website or stop by in person. All submissions must be original and follow simple guidelines like size and format, which are listed online.

Why This Matters for Columbia City

This contest comes at a time when local libraries are adapting to modern needs while honoring their roots. Peabody Public Library, founded in 1901, has grown from a small collection to a hub offering book clubs, craft sessions, and homebound deliveries.

Community leaders see it as a way to boost engagement. Similar events in nearby areas have drawn hundreds of entries, sparking interest in arts and literacy. For instance, recent library programs in Indiana have included storytimes with local experts, like orthodontists sharing health tips.

The anniversary ties into broader trends, such as libraries nationwide celebrating milestones amid rising digital demands. In 2025, with book challenges making headlines, events like this reinforce libraries as safe spaces for expression.

Here are key eligibility rules:

• Open to residents of all ages in the Columbia City area.
• Designs must be family friendly and original.
• One entry per person to keep it fair.

Judging Process and Prizes

A panel of library staff and local artists will review submissions in February 2026. They look for creativity, relevance to library themes, and visual appeal. Winners get announced in March, with their designs rolled out on new cards by spring.

Prizes include gift cards to local shops and free library memberships. Past contests in similar libraries have awarded books or art supplies, adding extra motivation.

The library plans to display all entries in a special exhibit, turning the event into a community showcase. This approach has worked well in other Indiana libraries, where anniversary events boosted visitor numbers by up to 20 percent.

Impact on Local Creativity and Education

Beyond the fun, the contest promotes artistic skills among youth. With categories for kids under 12, teens, and adults, it encourages family participation. Educators note that such activities build confidence and tie into school art programs.

In Columbia City, where the library serves over 3,000 patrons, this could inspire more involvement in ongoing events like summer reading challenges. Recent data from library associations shows that creative contests increase membership renewals by 15 percent on average.

Looking Ahead to More Celebrations

As the library eyes its next 125 years, this contest is just the start. Plans include special story hours and exhibits throughout 2026. It aligns with national efforts to revitalize public spaces post pandemic.

Residents can expect updates via the library’s social media and newsletter. With similar initiatives popping up in places like Fort Wayne, the trend points to a renaissance in community driven arts.

What do you think of the contest? Share your thoughts in the comments below or spread the word to friends who love to draw. Your input could spark even more local events.