McALLEN, Texas – The South Texas International Book Festival is inviting young artists ages 5 to 18 from across the Rio Grande Valley to enter its 2026 Youth Bookmark Contest.
Entries will be accepted through 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2. This year’s theme, “Pages to Possibilities,” asks participants to tell their stories through art by depicting meaningful moments from the past, present experiences or hopes for the future.
Entries will be judged in three age groups: 5-8, 9-13 and 14-18. Winning designs will be professionally printed and distributed at McAllen Public Library locations throughout the year.
Winners will be recognized during an awards ceremony at the South Texas International Book Festival on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Official entry forms are available at McAllen Public Library locations and online at southtexasbookfestival.com. Submissions opened Aug. 3.
Library Director Kate Horan said the contest gives young artists a way to make their creativity part of the library experience. City Manager Isaac J. Tawil said the program expands access to educational and cultural opportunities, and Mayor Javier Villalobos said it gives young people a platform to share their ideas and talents.
Teachers, homeschool educators and youth organizations are encouraged to share the contest with students. For more information, call the Main Library’s Teen Department at 956-681-3090.
