DAPHNE, Ala. — Children can combine loves of art and reading during the Daphne Public Library’s bookmark contest.

Entries are accepted Monday through Sept. 26 for kindergarten through 12th-grade students.

Cathy Chandler, children’s librarian, gave some tips for creating bookmarks.

“Bookmarks should be made from poster paper or cardstock and be the approximate size of a commercial bookmark,” she said.  “Students may incorporate elements of reading, books, the library, favorite characters or authors in their bookmark design. 

“Neatness and creativity are very important.”

“We believe that the competition inspires the students to do their very best,” she said. “The beauty of this competition is that it allows young artists an avenue of expression while at the same time promoting the library and the many programs we offer here.”

Tonja Young, library director, agreed.

“I think it’s a great idea for kids to become involved with the library at a young age because kids are so open to new ideas and so filled with curiosity,” she said. “They have so many questions and want to learn so many things and what better place to do that than in the library.

“As a child, my local library always intrigued me and I hope to have Daphne kids feel the same way about our library.

“We want to teach them, excite them, and help them learn to love books; books are the doorway to many worlds.”

Last year there were about 700 entries, Chandler said, and this year the contest has expanded to include high-school students.

The winner’s bookmark — one from the young adult and one from the child category — will be copied and distributed at the front desk of the library.

Winners will also receive a $10 gift certificate to Barnes & Noble, she said.

The library is located at U.S. Highway 98 and Whispering Pines Road. For more, call 621-2818.