Dallas Public Library is seeking proposals from artists for two public design projects.

Both would enhance the main library in downtown Dallas. One is for a walkway, the other is for garbage cans.

The goal with both pieces is to create an unexpected, playful atmosphere to welcome children when they get off the bus for a field trip, come to a library program, or accompany their parents to the vital statistics office.

The library wants designs that incorporate literacy and play, such as letter or number knowledge, children's rhymes, planets of the solar system, basic math, or animal recognition.

Designs may include prompts that encourage early learning lessons, such as "Count how many steps between the blue circle and the red square," or "How many things do you see that start with the letter A?" Think of elements you would see on a classroom bulletin board. Find more ideas at GetReadytoRead.org.

The Dallas Public Library and the Office of Cultural Affairs staff will select the design based on how well it fits the desired theme and feasibility.

This is not the first time a city of Dallas agency has initiated a program to decorate trash containers. In 2016, the city's Sanitation Services department hosted Art for Dumpsters, a program that commissioned art on city recycling containers.

Walking path
The library is requesting design proposals for a kid-friendly walking path leading from the sidewalk to the main entrance of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library at 1515 Young St.

The chosen design will be printed on exterior concrete calendar vinyl with non-skid laminate, and installed by the printing company with artist supervision. The project is projected to have a lifespan of 6 months, and may be replaced as funds allow.

The winner will receive a $2,000 stipend paid upon project installation.

Garbage cans
The library is requesting design proposals for five kid-friendly garbage cans placed at the main entrance of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1515 Young St. Designs may be for a single can or for all five cans.

The chosen designs will be printed on vinyl and wrapped on metal 35-gallon garbage cans. The project is projected to have a lifespan of at least 6 months, and may be replaced as funds allow.

The winner will receive a $1,000 stipend paid upon project installation.

For details on how to submit work, go to dallaslibrary.submittable.com. For questions, email melissa.dease@dallascityhall.com.