Reading Challenges

Winter Reading Challenge - January 1-31, 2025

Ready, set, READ! We encourage readers of all ages to challenge themselves to become reading machines this winter. Everyone who registers (yes, adults, too!) will get an exclusive WDM Library Summer Reading sticker. Registration opens on January 1.  You’ll track your reading through the handy Beanstack app or with paper trackers handed out at the Children’s Desk. Readers of any age who log more than 10 reading days during the month of January will be entered to win a Valley Junction gift card! For information on registering groups (such as classes or daycares) please send a message to youthservices@wdm.iowa.gov.  

Registration opens on Wednesday, January 1. You may sign up online, the Beanstack app from the App store or Google Play, or by stopping by the Children's or Adult desks at the library. 

1000 Books Reading Challenge (ongoing)

For parents and children ages 0-6

One thousand books? That seems like way too many, right? Not at all. You got this. It doesn't matter if your child is three, or just three months - there's no better time to start than now!

Reading helps build social and emotional skills, sparks creativity and imagination, promotes bonding, and helps kids do well overall in school. Take that motivation, open one book, and get started. And remember, 1,000 is just a number. The goal is to work reading aloud into your regular routine, and let the magic of stories do the rest. You can register at wdmlibrary.beanstack.org/reader365 or via the Beanstack app for iOS or Android

If you would like a physical Badge Book (with stickers!), you can pick one up at the Children's Desk. Log each time you read a book and complete activities to earn awesome badges. You also get a special prize when you reach the halfway mark. When you've reached the magic 1,000 books, come take a celebratory photo with Oliver the Sheepdog! Happy Reading!

1000 books reading challenge image
Oliver and Oren

Summer Escape - May 20 - July 27, 2024

Our annual Summer Reading Club is back and bigger than ever this year! Everyone who registers (yes, adults, too!) will get an exclusive WDM Library Summer Reading sticker. Registration opens on May 20.  You’ll track your reading through the handy Beanstack app or with paper trackers handed out at the Children’s Desk. Readers of any age who log more than 30 reading days will win exciting prizes at the end of the summer! For information on registering groups (such as classes or daycares) please send a message to youthservices@wdm.iowa.gov.  

We are bringing back our Weekly Drawings as well, so each time you visit the building, don’t forget to fill out a Weekly Drawing raffle form to win prizes from local businesses throughout the summer. Events for all ages will be taking place as well, so don't forget to check our calendar for more details!

Registration opens on Monday, May 20. You may sign up online, the Beanstack app from the App store or Google Play, or by stopping by the Children's or Adult desks at the library.