SBZoo x SBPL Library Card Design Contest

Wild about reading: How would your favorite zoo animal read a book? Enter the 2026 Library Card Design Contest for a chance to have your artwork featured on a limited-edition SBPL Library Card!  

Submit your design by August 12, 2026! 

How to Enter 

1. Create original artwork inspired by the theme – Wild About Reading: How would your favorite zoo animal read a book? 
2. Submit your work digitally, or in person at the Central Library  
3. One winning design will be selected from each of the three age categories: Youth (12 and under), Teen (13-17), and Adult (18 and older). Winning entries will be selected by Santa Barbara Public Library and Santa Barbara Zoo staff. 

The three winning entries will be featured on limited-edition Santa Barbara Public Library cards, available in fall 2026.  

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: 

• Designs must incorporate reading, libraries, and zoo animals.
• Submissions may be any medium (illustration, pen, photography, etc.), but they must be original.
• Digital artwork created by the artist is welcome. AI-generated images and clip art are not permitted.
• By entering the contest, you grant Santa Barbara Public Library permission to reproduce your artwork on a Library card and in contest-related promotional materials if your design is selected.
• Name, age, and contact information are required.
• One entry per contestant.
• Entrant must be a SBPL card holder.
• Designs can be horizontal or vertical.
• Words and numbers can only be incorporated as graphic elements.
• Submissions with incorrect spelling, grammar, or copyrighted images will be disqualified.
• Digital submissions should be 1050 x 639 pixels at 300 dpi or higher.
• Do not include your name or other identifying information within the artwork.