“Winter reading is a great escape,” says  Becker and Big Lake Librarian Hilary Dawson. 

The sentiment reminds area residents there’s still time to be a part of Great River Regional Library’s (GRRL) annual Winter Reading Challenge, which runs through Fri., Feb. 28. This year’s theme is ‘The Great Escape.’

The Winter Reading Challenge provides fun incentives for readers to settle into winter reading habits. It’s designed primarily for teens and adults and is open to anyone in the sixth grade or older. Each of the 32 branch libraries in the GRRL system has prize drawings for participants. All book lovers need to do is register for the program at their local library, online at griver.beanstack.org, or on the Beanstack Tracker app.

Readers can then log their winter reading using a paper log from their library or the Beanstack tracker app. By downloading and using the app, readers can keep track of their reading, get book recommendations, and earn online badges to help make reading a habit. Each day, any amount of reading will make participants eligible for online badges and prizes. 

To add even more fun to this year’s program, the Clearwater, Becker, and Big Lake Libraries each have great incentives to encourage patrons to make reading a part of their daily lives. Along with Winter Reading Challenge-themed mugs and hats provided by GRRL, participants at the Clearwater Library can win gift certificates to the Clearwater Travel Plaza through weekly drawings and a grand prize of a Coborn’s gift card.

“Each year we see more people signing up for the Winter Reading Challenge in Clearwater,” said Clearwater Librarian Shelly Kuelbs. “The community response has been great. Taking part is really easy, and all entries are included in the weekly drawings.”

Through weekly drawings at their libraries, participants at both Becker and Big Lake can also win themed hats and mugs along with books and gift certificates to area businesses. The grand prize at each library is earbuds.

“Winter reading allows you to travel to different places and times, uncover new ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and embark on thrilling adventures,” said Dawson. “After all, who doesn’t love a great story? Let the library provide the story in print, audio, or digital format while you provide the cozy space and warm cup of cocoa for your wintery escape.”

GRRL consists of 32 branch libraries and offers nearly one million books, CDs and DVDs. Numerous other services offered include librarian information assistance, public internet computers, business services, online databases, wireless internet service, book selection advice, the educator request form, tours, language learning software, genealogy resources, and library events throughout the year. For more information visit griver.org.

Escape with a good book this season with GRRL’s Winter Reading Challenge.