The Chester County Library System proudly announced the winners of its Third Annual Teen Photo Contest, America 250, during a celebratory reception held on Sunday, August 9 at Chester County Library in Exton. The open‑house‑style event welcomed guests of all ages to support teen photographers and explore a vibrant gallery of original artwork submitted by students across Chester County.
This year’s contest invited Chester County residents and students in grades 6–12 to submit original digital photography inspired by the theme America 250, encouraging teens to reflect on the nation’s past, present, and future through visual storytelling. Participants entered photographs in one or both of two categories: Traditional Photo (minimal editing) and Red, White & Blue (photos primarily featuring red, white, and/or blue, with digital enhancement permitted).
Contest Winners
Category 1: Traditional Photo
1st Place: American Rocketry — Jiahui T., Downingtown STEM Academy
2nd Place: Wrapped in Freedom — Ali S., Methacton High School
3rd Place: Monument to Freedom — William K., Downingtown Middle School
Category 2: Red, White & Blue
1st Place: Withered Wonder — Zachary D., Conestoga High School
2nd Place: Reading Our History — Ali S., Methacton High School
3rd Place: Land of Equal Opportunities — Sidaarth G., Great Valley Middle School
The first, second, and third place winners in each category were announced at 1:30 PM during the reception. Winning photographs are now on display in the Chester County Library vestibule through August 31. Community members may also view the complete slideshow of entries on the Chester County Library YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHjK0pnDe2w
This program supports PA Forward’s Basic Literacy and Civic & Social Literacy initiatives, encouraging teens to express themselves creatively while engaging with their communities.
