Posted on 10 September 2026 by Chris Brown.
Community members could see their work on the shelves of Medicine Hat Public Library without writing a single word.
Instead, you’ll use your artistic eye and paintbrushes and markers to add some beauty to our stacks.
“People will have the chance to come by and paint a metal bookend as part of a community art project,” explains Alyssa Roussy, Adult & Community Librarian. “They can take inspiration from their favourite stories or genres, decorate a bookend, and then they'll be able to see it in the stacks in the library.”
Roussy has primed 50 bookends to create perfect blank white canvases for people to paint, and the library will supply acrylic paint, sponges, paintbrushes, acrylic markers, and other materials. For inspiration she says to think of your favourite stories or where reading transports you, and adds that stories don’t only come from books.
“Let your imagination run free,” she says, and keep your design family-friendly.
We’ll be set up on the Library Lawn starting at noon until about 5 p.m. We’ll have giant board games and the ping pong table will be available for people who are waiting their turn to paint.
Paint a Bookend for the Library is in collaboration with the Esplanade’s Art in Motion from 12-5 p.m. along First Street from City Hall to the library. Culture Days performances, an open air art market, live music, and crafts are just some of the activities taking place.
“Art in Motion is a celebration of the creativity, diversity and community spirit that define Medicine Hat,” said Jessica Bromley, Cultural Programs Coordinator at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre. “The event would not be possible without the incredible support of our partners, artists, performers, community organizations, vendors and volunteers. Their collective contributions help us create an engaging experience that brings people together, showcases local talent and transforms First Street into a vibrant hub of arts, culture and connection.”
For more information on Art in Motion visit www.esplanade.ca
Follow the library on social media: @mhpubliclibrary