GRASS VALLEY, Calif. — Looking for something to enjoy on long winter nights? Sign up for the Nevada County Library’s Winter Reading Challenge and celebrate the season with reading, creativity and cozy activities for all ages.

Community members are invited to visit any Nevada County library branch to register for the challenge, which runs from Dec. 1, 2025, through Jan. 31, 2026. Participants will receive a free book at signup, courtesy of the Friends of the Nevada County Libraries, and can complete a bingo card of activities to earn a special prize.

Event Details  
What: Winter Reading Challenge
When: Dec. 1, 2025, through Jan. 31, 2026
Where: All Nevada County library branches
Audience: All ages
Admission: Free  

Fun for all Ages

“It’s nice to have some cozy activities lined up as we head into the winter season,” said Brittany Blake, adult programming coordinator at the Grass Valley Library. “Our Winter Reading Challenge is all about low-key activities to keep you in the spirit of the season, like reading by the fire, doing something creative, or coming to a library event.”

Younger readers and teens are encouraged to complete five activities on their bingo cards, which may include baking cookies, playing a board game, or taking a winter walk with a friend. Reading is also an important part of the challenge.

“When children read with their grown-ups, they learn to associate reading with love,” said Tricia Caspers, youth librarian at the Madelyn Helling Library. “The winter holidays are the perfect time to snuggle up, read fun and cozy books together for the library’s Winter Reading Challenge, and spread a little love.”

Activities for Adults

Adults can count time spent reading with children toward their own bingo cards, which include reading for a total of 80 minutes. Other activities include writing a letter, enjoying a warm drink, attending a library event, making a craft, or reading or watching something recommended by a librarian. To earn a prize, adults must complete all nine activities.

“Grown-ups have a little more to do, but something like bringing a friend to a library art program can check off two activities and give you a chance to spend more time with a loved one,” Blake said. “And as Tricia said, it’s all about spreading a little love this season.”

Challenge Information 

The Winter Reading Challenge runs from Dec. 1, 2025, through Jan. 31, 2026. Bingo cards will be available at all branches in both English and Spanish. For more information, visit your favorite branch or call 530-273-4117.

More Information 

For more information about this event and other library programs, visit nevadacountyca.gov/library or call 530-265-7050. Don’t forget to follow Nevada County Library on Instagram and Facebook for the latest program updates!