Looking for a quiet, outdoor reading spot with a little panache, Carson City Library officials are giving the backside of the library a makeover, and they want help from local youth.
The library's new "secret garden" is slated to include a mural on the building's west wall.
"We've been talking with about five different artists who are interested in the project," said the library's Youth Coordinator Cory King.
The mural will be based on direction from the library staff, which wants to get its direction from Carson City youth.
Through May 7, the library will accept ideas from ages 12 or younger for what to include in the mural design as part of a contest. Many suggestions are expected to be words the artist will fit into the painting.
"It will be something to read as well as a visual experience," King said. "We are looking for creative, unique and unusual words to represent Nevada."
Ten words will be selected for inclusion in the mural base on three different questions: What is your favorite thing about living in Nevada? What do you think is the best symbol for Nevada? What is your favorite thing to do in Nevada?
Entry forms for the mural design contest are at the youth desk.
The rest of the garden, being built with the help of University of Nevada, Reno's Cooperative Extension and the Carson City Parks and Recreation Department, is expected to include bench-like rocks, flowers and shrubs.
Also this week, the library is hosting a series of contests based on words and factual events. Kids who visit the library today through Thursday may follow clues throughout the library to find answers to various questions.
The winner or winners of the weeklong event, who will receive prizes donated by local businesses, will be announced Friday.