THE Mansfield Library was inundated with entries for its recent bookmark competition, with young artists across the shire drawing their inspiration from 2023 Book Week theme ‘Read, Grow, Inspire’.

Book Week is an annual initiative run by The Children's Book Council of Australia, which encourages childcares, schools and libraries to put on events marking the week, which coincides with the announcement of the CBCA Book of the Year Awards.

Mansfield Library’s Justine Shelton, coordinator of Book Week at the library, said the celebrations were bigger than ever this year, resulting in a huge amount of bookmark entries – a record-breaking 181 to be exact.

“After hours of deliberation between myself, Sharon Howlett and Deb Westphalen we were thrilled to announce first and second place winners across the three age groups, along with our special encouragement awards,” Justine said.

Justine extended her congratulations to everyone who entered, confirming that the judging process was incredibly difficult with so many colourful, creative and highly imaginative entries.

“Thank you to the Friends of Mansfield Library for donating Ink Book Shop vouchers as the winning prizes.”

Mayor Cr James Tehan extended his congratulations to the winners in each category.

“Their designs will be on bookmarks and available for free from the Mansfield Library for the next 12 months,” he said.

“The annual competition is a wonderful opportunity for young artists to have their artwork produced and enjoyed by our community.”