Erie County Public Library Encourages Community to Read this Winter with Blizzard of Books Challenge

Photo: Erie County Public Library

The Erie County Public Library is preparing to launch its winter reading challenge, Blizzard of Books. 

The challenge will mirror the library's popular Summer Library Program. It will feature reading and activity challenges, weekly prize drawings, and more fun programming that will keep patrons thriving instead of hibernating. 

Blizzard of Books will begin on December 2 and will run through January 31, 2025. 

This year's theme is inspired by Jan Brett's wintry classic, "The Mitten". The book is an illustrated folktale retelling about a boy temporarily loses his newly his newly knit mitten, and the many animals that seek refuge within it. 

Challenge participants of all ages are encouraged to reread this classic or share it with new readers for the very first time. 

Those interested in participating can register in-person at any Erie County Public Library location during the challenge dates. Children registering for the challenge will receive a free book to keep, including a selection of Jan Brett books, while supplies last. 

Blizzard of Books challenges include:

• Mitten Reading Challenge: Readers of all ages will track their reading by recreating the mitten
  story. This interactive challenge calls on readers to embrace their creative side by coloring the
  animals and customizing their mitten-- yes, even adults!
• Book Bingo Challenge: Get a BINGO by following prompts for book suggestions, reading
  locations, and engaging with library programs & services.
• Brett Book Bonus: The Blizzard of Books challenge may take its inspiration from Jan Brett's
  "The Mitten," but have you read her other titles? Read at least 10 books from the library’s
  collection to complete the Brett Book Bonus!

More information on the Blizzard of Books reading challenge can be found here.