Seattle Public Library Released New Artist Card Designs

The library system has introduced two new custom-designed cards for its patrons.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Fine Art

Bold vector editorial illustration of a modern library card with geometric nature patterns, clean editorial illustration. — The Seattle Public Library has launched two new artist-designed library cards, bringing the total number of available card aesthetic options to six. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Seattle Public Library has unveiled two new library card designs created by local artists. Patrons now have a total of six different artistic options available for their library credentials.

Why it matters

These new designs provide residents with a personalized way to engage with the public library system. Updating the card aesthetic can encourage community members to renew their cards or visit library locations.

The library now offers six distinct card designs for patrons to choose from. This update marks the first introduction of new card designs for the system in eight years.

The players

The Seattle Public Library

This is the primary public library system serving the residents of Seattle.

Ning Wan

This artist designed the new Book Club Card for the library system.

Diego Fidelis

This artist designed The Journey Card for the library system.

The details

Artists Ning Wan and Diego Fidelis created the Book Club Card and The Journey Card, respectively. Library users can select these new designs in either a standard wallet size or a convenient keychain format.

The Seattle Public Library released the new card designs on October 2, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

Public library systems increasingly use artist-led branding to differentiate their physical identity in a digital-first world. This move aligns with broader trends where cultural institutions refresh their public-facing materials to maintain relevance and appeal to younger demographics.

Existing cardholders in Seattle can now exchange their old cards for one of the new designs at any library location. The availability of keychain-sized cards offers a more convenient and portable option for frequent library users.

The takeaway

Using a library card designed by a local artist can foster a greater sense of community ownership over public resources. Residents are encouraged to visit their local branch to view the new options and update their library credentials.