Pick up a new book in the new year and join the City of San Diego Public Library’s (SDPL) Winter Reading Challenge. This year’s theme is Be a Reading Machine and focuses on the world of engineering, invention and high-tech skills. 

“The new year is a great time to reconnect with the fun and enjoyment of reading, and our staff has recommendations to help you find the perfect book, no matter your age,” said Library Director Misty Jones. ”SDPL also has exciting events and programs centered around this year’s Winter Reading Challenge theme. We encourage everyone to stop by their local library or IDEA Lab and create something new.”  

The Winter Reading Challenge runs from Jan. 1 to Jan. 31, 2025, and is open to readers of all ages. Participants can earn prizes by completing a combination of five books, five hours of reading or literacy-based activities like attending a library STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) program, creating a simple do-it-yourself machine or using a free tool to learn more about coding. Upon completion, readers will be eligible for prizes, including museum passes, a bendable robot and a special edition robot pin featuring Odi, SDPL’s mascot. 

The newly opened Pacific Highlands Ranch Library will host a free Winter Reading Challenge kick-off celebration on Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 5 p.m. The library will have interactive STEAM activities and other projects to help people of all ages discover their inner innovator.  

Participants can register online and view a list of recommended books and activities by visiting sandiego.gov/WinterReading. Registration is also available in person at any SDPL location, and participants can visit the SDPL calendar online to find storytimes and books discussions near them.  

About the San Diego Public Library    

With a vision of being the place for opportunity, discovery and inspiration, the San Diego Public Library is a hub for knowledge and lifelong learning. As the largest library system in the region, it serves a population of more than 1.4 million people. Learn about events at the San Diego Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common and 36 community branch libraries, find links to programs and resources or search for materials in the online catalog at www.sandiegolibrary.org.