Growing up, participating in summer reading programs was always fun because school was out of session; I had what seemed like endless time to enjoy books. Now, as an adult, those three months of break feel like a luxury from a distant time, since after a long summer workday, I feel compelled to spend as much time outside hiking in the glorious warmth and sun as possible. As you might imagine, this leaves little time for the leisurely hours of summer reading I experienced as a child.
Since I am much less inclined to embark on after-work hikes in the frigid winter temperature, this next month, when the evenings are long, I am finding it an ideal time to try and work through my to-be-read pile. Perhaps, you, too, are in the same boat. And perhaps, like me, you could benefit from a bit of motivation. If so, we have the perfect challenge for you.
Introducing a new program for adults this season: Winter Reading! Complete three books of your choice from Dec. 21 to Feb. 21. Pick up a reading log at the library’s Welcome Desk and return it before the end of the program. On Feb. 21, we will gather to celebrate our accomplishments and share what we’ve read. Not only will this be a lovely way to discover new titles, it will also strengthen our sense of belonging, something we at the library take pride in fostering. All participants will be entered to win a selection of advanced reader copies of books that are scheduled to be published in the spring.
What to read? The choice is yours. Fiction, nonfiction, and audiobooks all count. If you would like reading recommendations, please fill out the BookMatch form, from which my colleagues and I will compile a personalized list of suggested titles based on your reading preferences. You might also wish to browse our staff’s recommendations and genre-specific lists. And, of course, check out our Libby and Hoopla collections of digital content for even more choices.
Winter is a hard time for many; together, we can take on winter and make it a season of reading. Hope to see you at the Welcome Desk soon!