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Cook County has announced the launch of its first Bookmark Design Contest as part of Project Rainbow, a free initiative aimed at supporting early childhood education. The contest is open to students in kindergarten through sixth grade for the 2025–26 school year.
Students are invited to submit original bookmark designs that reflect themes related to books, reading, or community. Each participant may enter one design independently using an online entry form. Submissions will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025.
“We’re excited about engaging young people at the County, and Project Rainbow is an initiative that introduces youth to government in a creative way,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Having an official bookmark at the County is a great way to celebrate art by young people and encourage reading and civic participation.”
The contest will select one winner from each of two categories: grades K–3 and grades 4–6. Winners will receive a Kindle Colorsoft Kids reader, and their designs will be printed as official Cook County bookmarks for distribution during National Book Month in October. The winning artwork will also be displayed as banners in the Cook County Building lobby and featured on the Project Rainbow website.
Winners will be recognized with a personal visit from Board President Toni Preckwinkle and honored with an official county resolution. Notification of winners will occur by email by October 1, 2025.
“This is our first ever bookmark contest and we’re excited to offer new ways to engage kids within the Project Rainbow universe,” said Project Rainbow Creator Nick Shields. “From new content in our app to new artwork from kids, our goal continues to be about inspiring kids, encouraging curiosity and contributing to their development.”
Project Rainbow was established by Cook County in response to early education challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program offers free educational media, programming for young children, and creative resources through various platforms including County TV and a mobile app.
More information about participating in the contest can be found at https://projectrainbow.cookcountyil.gov/bookmark.
