A Bookmark for the Future

first-grader Emma Gomes got to stand on the steps of the State House recently and help advocate for public library programs. It all started with a bookmark she created for a contest.

Emma entered the Mass. School Library Association’s annual bookmark contest this spring – themed “Think, Create, Share, Grow!” – and came away with an honorable mention in the Division I category. The theme was based on a nationwide initiative (Learning 4 Life) to bring 21st century curricula to all school libraries.

“Congratulations on your bookmark design! School libraries are a valuable resource in every child’s life and you have shown great respect for your school library program by creating a beautiful bookmark that will be distributed throughout the United States and even other countries. They will serve as a reminder of the precious school library programs that every child deserves,” wrote MSLA President Geraldine Fegan in a letter to Emma and her school.

Karen Sekiguchi, who is the library media specialist for the Danvers elementary schools, writes on the elementary libraries’ Web site that students at all five elementary schools submitted colorful entries and winners were chosen in each building. Librarians at each school submitted the entries to the contest.

“Students designed beautiful bookmarks showing the ways their school libraries help them learn and grow…Emma is our third student in recent years to be recognized by MSLA judges…We are proud of Emma and all of our fabulous artists in the Danvers Public Schools!” Sekiguchi said.

The panel of judges was made up of children’s book authors and illustrators.

The awards were bestowed March 28 during the MSLA’s annual Legislation Day at the State House. Thorpe Elementary library aide Kathy Lyons, Sekiguchi and Thorpe Principal Rita Ward all traveled to Boston with Emma to receive her award.

Emma’s bookmark can be viewed online here along with the other winners.