Winter Comes Alive At The Library With Reading, Creativity, And Community Programs

Winter at the library is shaping up to be a season full of imagination, creativity, and connection, with a wide range of programs and activities for readers and makers of all ages. From the annual Winter Reading Challenge to hands-on workshops, family events, and special winter contests, there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout January and February.

The Winter Reading Challenge invites children and teens aged 0 to 17 and up to keep reading all winter long while earning chances to win prizes. Registration opened January 2 and can be completed online or in person at the library. Participants can pick up a Reading Log Booklet at the library and begin tracking their reading minutes right away. The first 15 minutes of reading automatically earns a ballot for prize draws from Northern Lights Library System and the Vermilion Public Library, with an additional ballot earned for every hour read after that. The more participants read, the more chances they have to win.

Reading minutes can be logged from home through the NLLS website or recorded in person when readers bring their booklet into the library. To be eligible for NLLS draw prizes, all reading minutes tracked by the library must be submitted by February 28.

Alongside the reading challenge, the library is offering a full slate of winter programming designed to keep minds active and creativity flowing. Throughout the winter, visitors can enjoy in-house activities, take-home handouts, extra craft kits, and a variety of free programs suitable for all ages and skill levels. Some programs require registration, while many are open drop-in events.

January programming includes Lego Days on Friday, January 2 and Friday, January 30 from 2 to 3:30 p.m., where participants of all ages can stop in and build freely with Lego in a relaxed and creative setting. On Saturday, January 17, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., the library will host Junk Journaling for Beginners, a welcoming workshop that introduces participants to the art of journaling using mixed materials. Attendees can create a resolution journal, a gratitude journal, or a completely personalized project of their own.

Teens aged 16 and up can also take part in an Introduction to Warhammer and Mini Figure Painting on Thursday, January 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. This beginner-friendly session offers guided instruction and an introduction to the hobby, with registration required.

Adding an outdoor creative twist to the season, the NLLS Snow Art Contest invites community members to create, photograph, and submit their snow art for a chance to win a snowman making and painting kit from NLLS. Submissions are open from January 1 to February 1, with entries displayed on the NLLS website for public voting from February 9 to February 22. The entry with the most votes at the end of the voting period will win, encouraging participants to share their creations and rally support from friends and family.

There are no age restrictions for the Snow Art Contest, though the prize is best suited for children aged 3 to 12. Entries may be created indoors or outdoors, and participants are welcome to submit a single entry as a family or group, or individual entries for each family or group member. Full contest details and submission instructions are available on the NLLS website.

February continues the winter fun with another Lego Day on Friday, February 13, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Later in the month, the library will host a Black History Month Movie Night featuring The Jackie Shane Story on Saturday, February 21, from 3 to 5 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring snacks and cozy pillows, while popcorn and beverages will be provided. This free screening is open to ages 12 and up and requires no registration.

With reading incentives, creative workshops, family-friendly activities, and seasonal events, the library continues to be a vibrant hub throughout the winter months. Community members are encouraged to stop in, sign up, and take part in everything the library has to offer this January and February.