LA County Library representative Robert Gardner presented program updates for the Artesia Library at the Aug. 11 council meeting, highlighting several upcoming opportunities and services.

Gardner said the library will run its 46th annual bookmark contest from Sept. 2 through Oct. 18 with age categories from K–12; winners at each branch will advance to the Board of Supervisors’ selection for countywide winners. He also described the 2025 Next Chapter Writers Summit fiction and poetry contest for teens and adults — submissions are limited to 750 words and the deadline is Aug. 17; winners receive cash prizes and a 30‑minute virtual consultation with a literary agent.

Gardner announced that LA County Library’s tool‑lending program has added musical instruments (acoustic guitars, electric keyboards and electronic drum kits) available for three‑week checkout; Norwalk Library is the closest branch offering tool lending for Artesia residents. He also said the library will partner with the county Department of Public Health to provide free school‑readiness vaccines for uninsured children on Wednesday, Aug. 27 (1–3 p.m.), and that COVID‑19 vaccines will be available for uninsured adults. Gardner listed additional programs: a senior tech class Aug. 30, a teen time‑management workshop Sept. 13 and a family film screening Sept. 27.

Gardner encouraged residents to visit lacountylibrary.org and the Artesia Library Facebook page for details and registration information.