Reading Challenge

Reading Challenge Banner

America 250 Reading Challenge

Celebrate America's 250th birthday in 2026 with the library in the best way we know how - by reading! Read a book that matches our America 250 theme every month and earn a virtual Beanstack badge. 

Composite Image America 250 Bookmark

If you prefer a paper log, visit any participating branch library to pick up an America 250 bookmark and commemorative sticker to mark your journey as you read along with us this year.

Fill up your Beanstack challenge with badges or your paper log with stickers and earn a commemorative prize at the end of the year. 

Each month, log into your account on Beanstack for the release of the new theme. Also visit this webpage for the new theme and reading recommendations.

America 250 Reading Challenge banner

January Reading Theme

America 250 Sticker Mount Rushmore

Read about an American History topic that is new to you in the New Year! Choose historical fiction or nonfiction.

Recommended Books and Films

Winter Watch Challenge

Watch 5 movies between January 1 through January 31 to be entered into a grand prize drawing for a movie popcorn basket. One grand prize is available at each branch library location.* **

Watch movies on any platform you desire! Check out DVDs at any branch library location, or Kanawha County residents may get access to library digital streaming services via Kanopy and Hoopla with your library card. Find them here: http://bit.ly/3h1poqF.

Track your progress on Beanstack or pick up a paper log at any branch library location, available starting January 2.

*Participants with home library locations listed as Riverside, Marmet, Glasgow, and the Bookmobile will be entered into one drawing. 

**Participants with Nitro as a home library location will not be entered into any drawings.

2026 Winter Watch Challenge banner with green background and mug with hot cocoa and orange slice and thyme

Programs at Your Library

Many of our branch library locations will have special events, presenters, and book displays to celebrate our challenges. Stop by anytime to check them out! Click here to find our branch library locations and hours.

This event is in the "Adults" group
This event is in the "Seniors" group
Registration Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Main 311A GKVF Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Seniors
Program Type: Classes & Workshops
Registration Required
Event Details:

Registration is not required for this event. Register with your email to receive event reminders and updates about any changes that may occur due to weather. 

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org

Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.

Inclement Weather

All programs are subject to rescheduling or cancellation in the event of inclement weather.

Photo & Video

We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.

This event is in the "Children" group
This event is in the "Tweens: 10-12 Years" group
This event is in the "Teens" group
This event is in the "Adults" group
This event is in the "Family" group
This event is in the "All Ages" group

Sunday Movie & Crafternoon

2:00pm–4:00pm
Children, Tweens: 10-12 Years, Teens, Adults, Family, All Ages
Main Library
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Main 311B GKVF Meeting Room
Age Group: Children, Tweens: 10-12 Years, Teens, Adults, Family, All Ages
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Movies & Performances
Event Details:

Join us for a frog and princess-themed movie and indulge in a variety of froggy crafts! This program will be available while supplies last. 

This program is open to the young, the young at heart, and the simply frog obsessed! 

Disclaimer(s)

Accessibility

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org

Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.

Photo & Video

We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.

Let's Get Started!

A reading challenge is a fun way to challenge yourself to read more, or to read books on a new topic that you may not have considered before! Beanstack allows readers to register for challenges available to their age group, log their reading, and track their progress.  

Reading challenge themes range from our annual Summer Library Club to Mental Health Awareness Month. Sometimes we even host movie-watching or writing challenges. There’s something for everyone! 

Create a Beanstack account and watch the library calendar for challenge announcements. When a challenge is available for your age group, register and track your progress as you go.

BeanStack Marketing