Naperville Public Library’s Winter Reading Program is off to a winter-ful start.
Running from Dec. 13 to Jan. 30, the annual program encourages children to continue reading during the cold winter months. It’s hard to argue that winter is the perfect time to sit in front of the fire with a mug of yummy cocoa, a cozy blanket and a good book.
This year’s theme is “Reading is Sweet!” which highlights the sweet adventures books can take us. Each of the library’s three facilities is decorated in festive candy-themed decorations, giving the library a very sweet Candyland vibe.
Kids set goals
The program is open to children up to fifth grade. Parents and caregivers can register them online or by visiting any of the three libraries, where kits containing reading logs and prizes can be picked up. Participants can also log their progress and earn badges online through the library’s Beanstack platform.
Parents should work with their child to set a realistic goal that can be achieved daily, whether they prefer to read a certain number of pages or books each day or for a specified length of time. This can be tailored to each child depending on their age and reading level.
There are 30 squares on the reading log. Every 10 days a child reaches their goal, they earn a prize from the kit. Prizes include colorful bookmarks, fun toys and other items.
After completing all three levels, children can visit their nearest library location to choose a free book. They will also be entered into a drawing for a grand prize gift basket, which includes a yeti plush toy and a board game, in honor of our newest collection of board games added to the library this fall.
This year, the Winter Reading Program will also include exciting in-person library challenges and activities. Children can create holiday cards for people in the community; find our Winter Reading Program mascot, Yeti, hiding among the stacks; decorate a gingerbread person and more.
Activities will change weekly so be sure to stop by all month long!
Teen challenge
Teens can participate in our Teen Winter Reading Challenge from Dec. 15 to Jan. 15. Those in grades 6 through 12 can pick up a book, a goodie bag and a BINGO card at the Adult & Teen Services Desk at any library location. By returning a completed BINGO card to the library, they will be entered into a drawing for a special winter reading prize basket.
This winter, remember to sign up for the Winter Reading Program at the Naperville Public Library because READING IS SWEET!
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Ashlee Conour is the marketing specialist at Naperville Public Library.