Winter Reading Challenge

Reading Challenge | Reading Challenge FAQ | Programs and Events

All ages are encouraged to join the Library’s annual Winter Reading Challenge. Warm up with a good book, challenge yourself, and win prizes.

cozy up with a good book image banner december 21 to january 31

Reading Challenge

December 21, 2024 through January 31, 2025

Read, have fun, and win prizes with the online reading challenge for all ages. Record your reading and collecting badges, located exclusively in Beanstack.

All reading and activities MUST be logged in by January 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. to be eligible for prizes. 

REGISTRATION BEGINS DECEMBER 21

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 December 21, 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 January 31 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

FEATURED EVENTS FOR ALL AGES

  • Family Board Game Day
    • Thursday, December 26, 10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
    • Play a classic game with friends and family or learn a brand new one! Drop in the Youth Room and choose a board game from our selection at the Youth Desk. 
    • No registration required.
  • Magic Show
    • Friday, January 3, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
    • Join us for a magical afternoon with Baffling Bill the Magician! Amazing magic, audience participation, and Gus the Bunny! Magic fun for the whole family.
    • Registration begins December 6.
  • Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit presents Songs for the People
    • Saturday, January 25, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
    • Inspired by Frances Ellen Watkins’ poem, this fully-developed concert complete with costumes and sound honors the resilience, triumph, and cultural impact of Black artistry, past and present and is suitable for all ages.
    • Registration begins December 26.

YOUTH EVENTS

  • After-Hours Vintage Video Game Night
    • Friday, December 27, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
    • We’re bringing out our favorite old-school consoles and games for a fun after-hours event!
    • For ages 8 and up.
  • Trolls Movie Marathon
    • Thursday, January 2, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    • Stop by the Story Room for a viewing of all three Trolls feature films! Popcorn and water provided, but you may bring your own nut-free snacks.
    • For families of all ages. 
  • How to Library
    • Thursday, January 30, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
    • Come join us for a fun and interactive informational session on using the library and its many services!
    • For ages 6 and up. Under age 8 must attend with an adult.
    • Registration begins January 2.

      TEEN EVENTS

      • Teen Club Craft Day: Crochet Amigurumi
        • Wednesday, January 15, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
        • If you like to knit, crochet, or craft with fiber in any way, this event is for you! Join us as we learn Amigurumi. Teens can bring their own project to work on or try the craft using our supplies!
        • Registration begins December 15.

      ADULT EVENTS

      • Adult & Teen Craft Kit: Winter Reading Snow Globe
        • Registration begins Friday, December 13 at 9:30 a.m. with kits available January 13.
        • Registered patrons will submit book titles of their choice and receive a personalized kit that includes a sticker sheet with their book covers, a mini snow globe, artificial snow, and foam board.
        • Registration begins December 13.
      • Speed Dating with a Book
        • Friday, January 10, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
        • Join us for an evening of librarians and 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 December10.

        And so much more! Check out the event calendar for the full list of programs and events.

        Updated 11/2024 SHC