Reading Challenge | Reading Challenge FAQ | Programs and Events

Calling adventurers of all ages! You are invited on an unforgettable quest this summer! Participate in our thrilling reading challenge and discover exciting prizes, events, and activities. Don’t miss out on the fun— join us at the library and let the exploration begin.

adventure begins at your library summer 2024 june 18 to august 9

Reading Challenge

June 18 through August 9

Read, have fun, and win prizes with the online reading challenge for all ages.

Beginning June 18, 2024, you can start recording your reading and collecting badges, located exclusively in Beanstack.

All reading and activities MUST be logged in by August 9, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. to be eligible for prizes. 

Reading Challenge FAQ

  • What is Beanstack?
    • Beanstack is our free online service that allows readers of all ages to log their reading, participate in activities, earn badges, and enter prize drawings. Access the website or download the Beanstack Tracker mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
  • How do I participate?
    • Log in or register with Beanstack by clicking the button above or visiting btpl.beanstack.org. After June 18, you’ll collect badges by logging your reading and completing activities. Each badge you collect earns you a ticket. Use your tickets to enter the prize drawings that interest you. Keep in mind that the challenge ends on August 9 so get all your logging in and tickets entered before then.
  • What ages are allowed to participate?
    • There are reading programs designed for all ages, newborn through adults. Only the reading programs you are eligible for will be visible to you when you’re logged into Beanstack.
  • My newborn or toddler would like to participate but can’t hold books or read yet.
    • Reading out loud counts, for both the reader and the listener.
  • Do I have to do the reading challenge online? Is there a paper option?
    • The reading challenge is only available online through Beanstack. If you need help using Beanstack or require additional accommodation, please contact us.
    • Participants from birth through 8th grade can pick up a paper reading log at the Youth Services Desk to track their reading before entering it into Beanstack.
  • Do I have to complete all of the badges?
    • No, you’re not required to get all of the badges. For each badge you complete, you receive a ticket to enter the prize drawings. This means that the more badges you complete, the better your chances of winning. But the reading challenge is meant to be fun, not a burden. Don’t stress, just do as many badges as you’d like.
  • What if my question isn’t answered here?
    • Call (248) 642-5800 or contact us with any further questions.

Programs & Events

View the event calendar for a full listing of programs and events or download a printable PDF.

FEATURED EVENTS FOR ALL AGES

  • All-Ages Tiny Art
    • Available beginning July 1, while supplies last.
    • Create a tiny work of art on a small canvas. Bring back your tiny creation by July 31, to be displayed in our Tiny Art Show in September.
  • Puzzle Tournament
    • Saturday, July 20, 1–3 p.m. Registration is required.
    • It’s back! Gather your puzzle-loving family & friends now Puzzle players of all ages and levels may compete in our 3rd puzzle tournament in teams of 2–4 players for a chance to win fun prizes.
  • Summer Reading Wrap Up: Pirate Party for All Ages
    • Friday, August 9, 2–4 p.m. No registration required.
    • Ahoy, mateys! Join us for a swashbuckling adventure filled with treasure hunts, games, and more. Enjoy some music for landlubbers and mates on the high seas performed by musician Randy Kaplan, and don’t forget to don your finest pirate attire for our costume contest.
  • Scavenger Hunts
    • Complete any or all of the all-ages scavenger hunts:

YOUTH EVENTS

  • Outdoor Family Story Time
    • Dates and times vary.
    • Join us outside for story time this summer on the Youth Services Terrace. Families can cozy up together for stories, songs, rhymes, movement, and more fun. In the case of inclement weather, Story Time will be held inside.
    • No registration required.
  • Jim Gill’s Sing-a-thon of Celebrated Songs
    • Thursday, June 27, 11 a.m. 
    • Jim Gill’s distinctive music play creates the spirit of a family room in the concert hall and is an invitation to children, parents, and grandparents to sing and play together!
    • Registration begins May 30.
  • Indiana Joel’s Magic Show
    • Thursday, July 18, 7 p.m.  
    • Michigan’s family funnyman, Joel Tacey, brings adventure stories to life with amazing magic, wacky stunts, music, and lots of audience participation.
    • Registration begins June 20.
  • Wildlife Safari
    • Tuesday, July 23, 2 p.m. OR 4 p.m. 
    • Let us take you on an expedition to discover exotic animals from around the world with Nelson the Animal Guy.
    • Registration begins June 25.

TEEN EVENTS

  • Summer Reading Kickoff: Teen Treasure Hunt & Craft Kit
    • Tuesday, June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
    • Join us the night of the Summer Reading Kickoff for fun activities at the library including a library-wide treasure hunt, teen-only craft kits, and summer reading sign up. Participants receive a FREE book!
  • Outdoor Adventure Scavenger Hunt
    • Tuesday, June 18–Friday, August 9
    • Join in the Outdoor Adventure Scavenger Hunt all over the library’s grounds. Discover a whole new side of the library and compete for a chance to win prizes.

ADULT EVENTS

  • Golden Girls v. Seinfeld Trivia Night with Mocktails
    • Thursday, July 11, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
    • Get ready to answer a challenging range of questions on both iconic shows. Form a team in advance of up to 6 people. Delicious themed mocktails and snacks will be provided.
    • Registration begins June 11.  
  • Speed Dating with a Book
    • Friday, August 2, 7 p.m.
    • Enjoy an evening of librarians and library staff members giving 20+ new pitches of great books in the span of an hour to help you find your next excellent read.
    • Registration begins July 2.

Updated 5/2024 AI & SHC