Ready, set, READ! The North Liberty Library encourages readers of all ages to challenge themselves to become reading machines this winter. Read and log at least 300 minutes or complete various activities to complete the challenge and earn a prize from the library and be entered into a drawing of your choice.

The Winter Reading Challenge runs December 16, 2024 through January 31, 2025. Track your progress online, in the Beanstack app (App store or Google Play), print a log or pick one up in the library. All ages can join in the fun.

Complete the challenge by January 31, 2025 to be included in prize drawing. See prize options for each age group below. Happy Winter Reading!

5 & UNDER PRIZE DRAWINGS

• binSpire Gelatin Time – This set includes the supplies for two playful sensory activities that are as fun for adults as they are for kids. Dive into “Gelatin Time,” where squishy textures make for curious hands. Then, try “Stick ‘Em Up,” where toys go up on painter’s tape and little hands get to peel them off—great for fine motor skills! 
• binSpire Peek-a-Box – Create a “Sensory Bottle,” where you’ll assemble a mesmerizing bottle filled with slow-moving glitter that little eyes can track and little hands can roll around.
• binSpire Use Your Noodles – Explore the fun, squishy texture of cooked spaghetti noodles, with the option to add a splash of food coloring for extra sensory excitement. Then, try “Sponge Fun,” where little ones can experiment with water and sponges, and you can add in optional toys for extra engagement.

SCHOOL AGE (6-18) PRIZE DRAWINGS

• Heartstopper volume and coloring book – Win a set including Heartstopper Volume One Graphic Novel and the Official Heartstopper coloring book. Heartstopper is a LGBTQ+ young adult graphic novel series written and illustrated by Alice Osman.
• Shadows in the Forest game – Shadows in the Forest is a board game that you play in the dark! One player uses an LED lantern to search for Shadowlings, mysterious creatures avoiding the light, while others work together to keep them hidden in the shadows. For 2-8 players for ages 8+.
• STEM Kits by Dasia Taylor – Win a pack of Nerd STEM Kits by Dasia Taylor, 2023’s Iowa Woman of the Year. Dive into a world of squishy, gooey, and totally awesome experiments. Create your very own “liquid worms” that wiggle and jiggle and mold magical water charms.

ADULTS (18+) PRIZE DRAWINGS

• A Chocolate Studio – Win a selection of chocolates from North Liberty based chocolate shop.
• Reds Alehouse – Enjoy a gift certificate for local cuisine.
• Socks with a Cause – Receive a gift certificate to Conscious Step and get warm and fuzzy socks which benefit a cause of your choice. That’s two sources of warm and fuzzy feelings in one!