Surrey student wins competition and decorates County Bookmobil

Ben Pifher/MDN Sophia Carlton (left), winner of the art contest to decorate the side of the bookmobile, stands with Ward County Library Director Kerri Boetcher during Thursday’s presentation.

SURREY – Sophia Carlton and her mother, Emily Carlton, stood outside Surrey Public School on Thursday, waiting for Sophia’s artwork to grace the side of the Ward County Public Library’s new bookmobile. According to Emily Carlton, a competition was held at the end of the 2024 school year and Sophia’s winning entry was placed as a decoration on the new mobile library, showcasing her work to the community stopping by in the area.

Sophia didn’t see the car, but was told she had won the competition and could see her work when it pulled up to her school. The entire work of art couldn’t fit on the bookmobile, Sophia explained as the vehicle came into view and she screamed with excitement.

Sophia said she worked on the artwork for eight hours and was inspired by her favorite fantasy novels. The graphics are decorated with elements from her favorite parts of the fantasy worlds she reads about.

“It’s amazing” – Sophia said, looking at the interior of the new car.

“It’s basically like an average library, but on wheels.” – said Cole Brooks, the librarian who operates the book van. She also said that the book van regularly visits 28 locations throughout the school year.

Ben Pifher/MDN Sophia Carlton covered her mouth with her hand Thursday when she saw her drawing on the back of the Ward County Public Library’s new mobile in Surrey. Her mother, Emily, stands next to her.

If a book is not available on the mobile library shelves, Brooks said it can be ordered and brought to you on your next visit using the mobile library.

Sophia said she saw her work on the side of the truck “incredible.”

“It’s a reason for us to be proud that we can support children” said Ward County Library Director Kerri Boetcher. “It’s about reading.”

: Ben Pifher/MDN Sophia Carlton covered her mouth with her hand Thursday when she saw her drawing on the back of the Ward County Public Library’s new mobile in Surrey. Her mother, Emily, stands next to her.

: Ben Pifher/MDN Sophia Carlton (left), winner of the art contest to decorate the side of the bookmobile, stands with Ward County Library Director Kerri Boetcher during Thursday’s presentation.