Alamance Libraries Launch Winter Reading Program with Free Books

Alamance County Libraries announced a month-long Winter Reading program to run from Jan. 20 through Feb. 21, with prize distribution continuing through Feb. 28. Residents of all ages can pick up a bingo-style reading board at any library branch, complete a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal line by recording titles read in each square, and return completed boards to any branch to claim a free book and a special edition sticker. Participants may play multiple times during the program.

The challenge is explicitly designed to be accessible to all ages. Audiobooks and graphic novels count toward the bingo squares, and caregivers reading aloud to young children are encouraged to record those titles as well. By recognizing multiple formats and caregiver involvement, the library aims to lower barriers to participation and broaden the definition of reading beyond traditional print.

For local families and individual readers, the program provides a low-cost way to engage with the library system during winter months when school and extracurricular schedules may be reduced. Free book rewards and collectible stickers create tangible incentives that can raise circulation and encourage repeat visits to branches, especially among young readers who benefit from sustained reading habits. The program’s allowance for caregivers to log readings on behalf of children underscores the library’s role in supporting early literacy and family engagement.

From an institutional perspective, the Winter Reading initiative offers measurable outcomes that can inform future programming and resource decisions. Participation rates, circulation of audiobooks and graphic novels, and repeat visits by households provide data points county administrators and library leadership may use when evaluating the library’s budget priorities and community impact. The program also serves as a visible example of public services that promote educational attainment and civic engagement at the local level.

Practical details are straightforward: pick up a bingo-style reading board at any Alamance County Library branch beginning Jan. 20, record titles to complete a line, and return completed boards by Feb. 21 to claim prizes through Feb. 28. For questions, contact Emery Lai at elai@alamancelibraries.org.