SALISBURY – Aspiring graphic designers, illustrators, print artists and photographers are invited to design a library card for the new West Branch.

The Rowan Public Library’s West Branch is sponsoring a library card design contest for artists of all ages and experience levels.

Entries may be submitted at any library branch beginning Monday.

The new branch will be located at 107 School St. in Cleveland, the site of the former Cleveland Elementary School media center.

“It is a very special thing for a new library to come to a community,” said Melissa Oleen, deputy library director. “This contest, which allows the public to participate, is being offered to celebrate and commemorate the establishment of West Branch Library.”

People of all ages are invited to submit an original design to be featured on a new library card for West Branch. The artwork can be created by traditional means or using computer software.

“We’re excited to see what people will submit. All printable art types are welcome from pencil drawings to photography,” said librarian Amber Covington.

The library is looking for a design that showcases the uniqueness of the West Rowan community.

“By giving residents the opportunity to design a library card specifically for West Branch Library, we hope to offer a library card that is reflective of the unique community that is West Rowan,” Oleen said.

Only one entry per person will be accepted. Contest rules, release forms and design templates are available at any library branch or can be downloaded at www.rowanpubliclibrary.org.

The deadline is 5 p.m. March 25. All entries will be reviewed by the West Branch Committee. Designs will be judged based on creativity, design and originality.

Rowan Public Library is continuing to plan activities for the opening of the West Branch. The library is not yet ready to open.

“It is too early to know what the exact grand opening date will be, but library staff is already brainstorming on how to make this grand opening special,” Oleen said.

For more information, visit the library website or contact Covington at Amber.Covington@rowancountync.gov or 704-216-8242.