The Bartlesville Public Library’s Annual LEGO Creation Contest is back! After cancelling last year’s competition due to the sudden Covid-related closing of the library, the staff has planned a slightly altered version of this popular event.
Registration begins on April 5th. To register, pick up a form at the library’s Youth Services Desk or download the form from BPL’s website or Facebook page. Contestants will build their LEGO creations at home using their own LEGOs, abiding by the rules and criteria noted on the registration form. They will then drop off their entries at the library any time between April 19th and April 21st at noon. After the projects are allowed to quarantine for 72 hours, private judging will take place on Saturday, April 24th. “This is where things will be a little different than usual,” says Youth Services Librarian, Laura Pryce. “We will not have a public viewing or awards ceremony this year, as this always attracts quite a crowd, and we’re not yet ready to put that many people into a small room together. I’m disappointed but very grateful that we’re able to host this event again!” Judging the contest, based on a numerical rating system in three categories, will be Eric Randall of Tri-County Technology Center, George Halkiades, retired engineer and a mentor for the local FIRST Robotics Team 2165, and John Gorman of Gorman Construction. Winning entries will be featured in the library’s lobby display case from April 25th through April 30th.
The contest is free. Participants will be divided into three age groups: Pre-K through 4th grade, 5th grade through 8th grade, and 9th grade and up, including adults of all ages. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each category with one overall grand prize being awarded. Winners will receive some of the latest and greatest LEGO kits available, which are generously funded by the Bartlesville Friends of the Library.
“We encourage everyone to participate,” says Pryce. “We’ve been holding this competition for over ten years and, in that time, we’ve seen great entries from both beginners and experienced builders of all ages!”
Call 918-338-4170 for more information.