Lacey Loves to Read (LLTR) is more than just a reading initiative—it’s a cornerstone of community-building, literacy, and creative expression in Lacey. Since its inception 22 years ago, Timberland Regional Library has been a proud partner in this event alongside North Thurston Public Schools, the City of Lacey, and many dedicated community partners. What began as a mission to inspire young readers has grown into a multi-faceted program that fosters a love of reading and creativity.
Key Elements of Lacey Loves to Read
LLTR includes a variety of engaging activities that encourage reading and creativity among youth:
Bookmark Design Contest: Open to students in grades K-12, this contest celebrates artistic expression while promoting a love of reading.
Read Around Lacey: Young readers in grades K-5 visit local businesses, where they practice their reading skills and discover the role literacy plays in everyday life.
Teen Writing & Art Contest: Established in 2014 by former Lacey Library Manager, Holly Paxson, this contest was designed to provide more engagement opportunities for teens. Each year, middle and high school students submit short stories, poetry, and artwork based on a central theme. The winning entries are published in a book available at the Lacey Timberland Library and online at TRL.org.
Featured Author Visit: Each February, LLTR culminates in a visit from a distinguished children’s author, who engages with students through school assemblies and a major public event. At the heart of LLTR is the belief that every child should see themselves reflected in the stories they read and the authors they meet. The program brings diverse authors to Lacey, ensuring that young readers can see writers with different backgrounds and lived experiences. This year, the program welcomed Varian Johnson, the award-winning author of The Parker Inheritance, The Great Greene Heist, and the graphic novel Twins.
Finalists in the Teen Writing & Art Contest wrote short stories, poetry, and created art exploring the theme of interpersonal relationships and identity.
Celebrating Teen Voices
An exciting aspect of LLTR is the Teen Writing & Art Contest. The Lacey Timberland Library coordinates the contest and the VIP reception every year, introducing an opportunity for finalists to present their work in an awards ceremony-style event. Poets are encouraged to read their work aloud, cover artists and short story writers share their inspirations, and the community gathers to celebrate young creatives.
This year’s theme, "Interpersonal Relationships and Identity," was inspired by Varian Johnson’s exploration of relationships in his work. The theme resonated deeply with participants, leading to a record number of submissions. One finalist shared that they had considered entering the previous year but were too nervous—this year’s theme gave them the confidence to submit. Another finalist’s poem, which reflected on their experience as a person with autism, moved the audience deeply. The winner of the Cover Art contest was genuinely shocked by their win, their excitement adding to the impact of the evening.
Providing these young artists and writers with a platform to share their work publicly is about more than just recognition—it’s about helping them develop confidence, find their voice, and gain valuable public speaking experience. Many attendees have shared that these heartfelt acceptance speeches are one of the highlights of the entire LLTR program.
A Lasting Impact
Lacey Loves to Read continues to grow, creating meaningful opportunities for young readers and artists to engage with literature, self-expression, and their community. Through programs like LLTR, we are helping to shape a community where literacy is celebrated, creativity is nurtured, and diverse voices have the opportunity to be heard.
For more information about Lacey Loves to Read and to view past featured authors, visit Lacey Loves to Read.
The Library also carries photo books commemorating several years of Lacey Loves to Read:
Lacey Loves to Read 2023: Dan Gemeinhart / Lacey Timberland Library
Lacey Loves to Read 2016
More information about Lacey Loves to Read can be found at https://www.nthurston.k12.wa.us/laceylovestoread
