The Erie County Public Library is thrilled to announce the return of its annual winter reading challenge, Blizzard of Books, beginning December 2, 2024, and running through January 31, 2025. This exciting program mirrors the library's popular Summer Library Program, encouraging participants to stay engaged with reading and activities during the chilly winter months. Packed with challenges, weekly prize drawings, and fun programming, Blizzard of Books promises to keep everyone reading and thriving instead of hibernating.
2024 Blizzard of Books Theme: Jan Brett’s The Mitten
This year’s theme draws inspiration from Jan Brett’s cherished winter classic, The Mitten—a beautifully illustrated folktale retelling about a boy who briefly loses his newly knit mitten, and the animals that take shelter inside. Challenge participants of all ages are encouraged to revisit this heartwarming story or share it with new readers for the first time.
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How to Participate
Registration is easy! Patrons can sign up in person at any Erie County Public Library location anytime from December 2, 2024, to January 31, 2025. Once registered, readers can dive into a variety of exciting challenges and programs. When registering, children will get a free book while supplies last!
Blizzard of Books Challenges
- Mitten Reading Challenge
Readers of all ages can track their reading progress by recreating The Mitten story. This interactive challenge allows participants to color animals and design their own mitten—perfect for kids and adults alike! - Book Bingo Challenge
Earn a BINGO by completing prompts such as reading specific book genres, exploring new reading locations, and participating in library programs and services. - Brett Book Bonus
While The Mitten serves as this year’s inspiration, Jan Brett has written many other delightful stories! Complete the challenge by reading at least 10 Jan Brett books from the library’s collection.
Featured Programs for Blizzard of Books
A host of winter-themed programs accompanies the reading challenges, with something for every age group.
Please check events.erielibrary.org for any weather-related cancellations or postponements. Many programs are being rescheduled and adjusted due to the snowstorms.
- 📍Branch Open Houses
The Blizzard of Books is bringing open house-style welcome parties to each of the branch locations. Explore the magic unlocked by your library card, get familiar with the library's most popular resources, and enjoy an all-ages craft plus story reading. Bring proof of residence in Erie County to get your free library card. Happening December 2 at Edinboro, Dec 3 at Iroquois, Dec 9 at Millcreek, Dec 10 at Lincoln. All open houses will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. - 🦌 Reindeer Games
Meet a live reindeer at the Iroquois Branch Library on December 2 or the Blasco Library on December 9, where attendees can also enjoy crafts, games, and holiday cheer. - 🦉 Tamarack Wildlife: "Wildlife in Winter"
Join educators and their animal friends from Tamarack Wildlife to learn about how wildlife adapts to winter. Programs take place at the Iroquois Branch Library on December 9 and the Lincoln Community Center Branch Library on December 13. - 🐇 Erie Zoo: "Smitten for Mittens"
Discover fascinating animal adaptations for winter with Erie Zoo educators. Inspired by The Mitten, this educational program features live animals and takes place at various library locations. - 🐷 Tree Family Party Piggies
Delight in an “oink-tastic” experience with playful piggy friends! Join the fun at the Millcreek Branch Library on December 6 and the Edinboro and Lincoln Community Center Branch Libraries on December 21. - 🧶 Cozy Crafts for Kids
Weekly craft sessions are available for children at all ECPL locations throughout December, offering wintry, creative fun. - 🦫 DCNR Presents: "Who Lives at Presque Isle"
Learn about the animals that call Presque Isle home with educators from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This all-ages presentation will visit all ECPL locations.
And these are just the highlights! Additional programs and events will be held throughout the challenge. Check the full lineup of activities by visiting events.erielibrary.org.
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More Information
For complete details about the Blizzard of Books winter reading challenge, including registration and program schedules, visit your local Erie County Public Library branch, or check out the dedicated Blizzard of Books page.
Don't miss the chance to make winter memorable with this engaging, educational, and fun community winter reading challenge.
