by Amanda Molumby 

To the average Iowan, winter brings with it a few challenges. Snow, ice, impressive windchills…the list goes on. Would you like a challenge to actually look forward to this winter? Look no further than the Ames Public Library! 

This winter we have a fun winter reading challenge going on. Hunker down under a blanket at home, find a cozy chair at the library, or even over a lunch break—wherever or whenever you find yourself with a free moment, pull out a good book, ebook, or eaudiobook and spend some time reading to earn pretty neat prizes! 

All ages are encouraged to participate. The challenge itself lasts 30 days, from December 1, 2024 through January 31, 2025. If you’d like to track your progress, there are beautifully illustrated reading logs that are available in the library to pick up, or you can track progress digitally through Beanstack by going to amespubliclibrary.beanstack.org. There’s also a link on our website to print off the tracking sheet, if that is a preferable option, complete with a handy QR code that links to Beanstack.

Mark off each day that you read (or are read to!). It could be for ten minutes or three hours—there is no time requirement. Once you’ve marked off 30 days, bring the reading log to the Ames Public Library by 5:45pm on Friday, January 31st of 2025. 

Adults can claim one of our two fun prize options that will hopefully help brighten the cold, short winter day: a delightfully designed holographic Aurora Borealis sticker or an adorable hot/cold pack in the shape of a polar bear. Children and teens can choose a book or a prize from our treasure box.

If you need any book suggestions or recommendations, stop by the adult or youth services desks and we’ll be happy to find something perfect for you! I should mention that if this challenge has you craving some more reading and prizes, our 12 to Try yearlong reading challenge is going on as well. 

Stop in to find a book that immerses you in a fantasy world, a sizzling romance, an enticing memoir, a fascinating historical event, or a fast-paced action or suspenseful thriller; we have a story for everyone! We hope to see you soon!