Request for Qualifications – RFQ
Submissions Due: February 9, 2026
The North Olympic Library System (NOLS) is seeking to hire an artist to design a graphic for the Summer Reading Challenge T-shirt and tote bag to be used during the 2026 Summer Reading Program.
Applicants do not need to create a design to apply. Complete the online form and share examples of prior artwork—ideally including at least one example of a one-color graphic. The selected artist will receive a $500 stipend to create a design (with up to three revisions) using these design principles to ensure a successful one-color screen print on fabric:
- Simple, easy-to-read shapes that don’t use shading or gradients.
- Not too much solid color in one spot—breaking up large areas helps prevent fabric ink from cracking.
- Lines that aren’t too thin, so they print clearly.
- Works well at different sizes, whether it’s printed for toddler shirts or large adult shirts.
About the Summer Reading Challenge T-shirt & Tote Bag
The Summer Reading Challenge is offered during the Summer Reading Program. After participants read for 30 days, they can select a Summer Reading Challenge T-shirt or tote bag. The Reading Challenge T-shirt has been a part of the program since 2016, and some participants have collected a shirt from each year. The tote bag, which will feature the same design, is a new prize option NOLS began offering in 2025.
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About the 2026 Summer Reading Theme: “Plant a Seed, Read”
“Plant a Seed, Read” is an all-ages summer reading program rooted in the concept of farm-to-table. A farm grows food that nourishes our bodies; a library grows ideas that nourish our minds. Both food and stories connect us to our family, culture, economy, and ecology. Library events will use this theme to explore culture, history, science, health, and human connection.
About the Summer Reading Program and the North Olympic Library System
The Summer Reading Program is an annual program that encourages community members to read throughout the summer, by offering fun programs, reading incentives and challenges. The program is for all ages and is especially focused on encouraging kids to read.
NOLS is a rural county library district with four primary service sites: the Main Library located in Port Angeles, and branches located in Sequim, Forks, and Clallam Bay. NOLS offers an information and resource-rich website, numerous online resources, and also serves NOLS’ communities through an array of community engagement services and initiatives including a Bookmobile.
Project Timeline
Eligibility
Local artists from the North Olympic Peninsula are encouraged to apply. All artists are welcome to apply.
Application Process
Artists who are interested in being considered for this project must submit their response using the online form at nols.org/artist-submission. All submissions must be received by received by Monday, February 9, 2026.
Artist responses must include:
- Brief statement about your work and why you’re interested in creating a design for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge T-shirt and tote bag (200 words maximum). Include your email, phone number, and mailing address.
- Portfolio or images demonstrating your work as it relates to this project. A link to an online portfolio or website can be provided, or up to four files can be attached. Accepted image file types: PDF, JPG, PNG, TIF, HEIC, IMG. Each file size should be less than 10MB.
Note: A confirmation email will be sent for all submissions received.
Selection Criteria
Evaluation of submissions received in response to this RFQ shall be based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to:
- The completion of all information requested in this RFQ.
- The ability to meet established deadlines.
- Any other factors considered to be in the best interests of NOLS.
Compensation
The selected artist will receive $500 upon project completion. A contract covering timeline, deliverables, and payment will be agreed to before work begins.
NOLS will collaborate with the selected artist through 1-3 rounds of revisions to refine the one-color design. NOLS will retain the rights to the artwork, allowing the artist to display the final product for portfolio and marketing purposes.
Final Design Requirements
Design requirements will be communicated in more detail with the selected artist. NOLS will select ink and product color based on final design.
- Must include the following text
- Summer Reading Challenge 2026
- Plant a Seed, Read
- Must include NOLS logo
- One-color design with transparent background and clear, readable design for fabric printing
- Large file size
- Format: PDF, Photoshop or Illustrator file
Questions
All questions should be directed to Karyn Bocko, Marketing and Communications Manager, at 360-417-8500 x7712 or kbocko@nols.org.