Longtime library patron Esther Gurau’s artwork will now be a part of the library’s legacy for new patrons after her design won the Victoria Public Library’s card design contest.
Gurau said when she first heard about the contest, she knew immediately that she had to participate. She reviewed historical information about the library and scoured Pinterest for inspiration before landing on her winning design: a row of stained-glass windows bearing the phrase “VPL 50 Years” along with library-related imagery, including the statue of two children reading to a dog outside the library.
“I want to say thank you to everyone who voted for my design,” Gurau said. “I’m excited to see the finished library cards and to get my own physical copy.”
Gurau has been reading library books voraciously ever since her mother signed her up for her first library card. Now, at age 25, she appreciates many of the library’s newer resources, including the Libby app that allows patrons to check out e-books and audiobooks from a smartphone.
“The Libby app is my go-to,” she said. “It’s so convenient.”
Gurau also enjoys the library’s event programming for adults, including the adult summer reading program, which she says has encouraged her to expand her reading horizons and try new kinds of books.
“I read a lot of fantasy and young adult literature, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve started to discover a wider range of interests,” she said. “I especially want to read more classics.”
Residents can sign up for the limited edition library card during the month of September, which is Library Card Sign-Up Month. The card is free to new cardholders. Existing cardholders will need to pay a $2 “replacement” fee.
To learn more about Victoria Public Library services, visit www.victoriatx.gov/library.
Anniversary celebrations continue with fun activities
Library patrons should mark their calendars for the following events in September:
- Sept. 6. - The library will host a 0.5K Storybook Fun Run (registration required) and free community block party. Participants are encouraged to dress as a book character.
- Through Sept. 6 - Stop by Green Cow Creamery to try one of their exclusive Victoria Public Library flavors.
- Sept. 25 - Tickets and sponsorships are available for “Librarium Nocturne,” a cocktail party that will be held at the library after hours.
Proceeds from these events benefit the Friends of the Victoria Public Library, which provides funding for library event programming for all ages.
To learn more and to sign up for upcoming events, visit www.victoriatx.gov/vpl50 or follow the Victoria Public Library on Facebook and Instagram.