Rise to the Challenge: 2026 Reading Program
ANNUAL READING PROGRAM FOR ADULTS
Now through December 31
Rise to the challenge and read 20 books during 2026. Read whatever books you like or follow our suggested categories.
Log reading and submit your raffle tickets online using Beanstack* or in person at the Adult Services Desk.
*What is Beanstack?
Beanstack is a digital platform where participants log their reading and find activity challenges designed by library staff. There are activities for all ages. Registration is quick and simple. Members create an account and log in to see all available reading challenges.
Get a prize for registering.
- Read 5 books and earn one raffle ticket towards a grand prize.
- Finish 10 books for two additional tickets and a halfway prize.
- Finish 15 books for three more raffle tickets.
- Finish all 20 books to receive four more tickets and a completion prize.
Earn up to six additional grand prize entries for completing the bonus activities.
- Participate in the Launch Pad Maker Challenge. Learn to use tools in the Launch Pad with self-guided instructions to earn points.
- Share your favorite part of a book you read with someone in your life.
- Share your experience about Rise to the Challenge with a friend.
- Attend a library program.
- Play a word game.
- Set a reading goal on Goodreads.com or TheStoryGraph.com
Submit all titles by end of day December 31, 2026. Allocate all tickets by January 8, 2027.
HOW TO REGISTER
•Adult Services Desk – paper logs are available.
•Call 847.459.4100, extension 3
•Register online through Beanstack
With Beanstack you can track your progress online or in Beanstack’s mobile app.
Are you new to tracking your progress online with Beanstack? Read more about Beanstack.
MORE WAYS TO READ AND LISTEN
INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT READ
Try one of these suggestions. Recommendations lists are available from our library staff.
- Community Picks: Read a previous OBOC book or a book by one of those authors.
- Staff Favorites: Discover a book recommended by staff.
- Native Voices Rising: Read a book by an Indigenous author or about Native experiences.
- Across Borders: Explore a book translated from another language.
- Epic Escapes: Immerse yourself in a high-fantasy adventure.
- Journeys of Belonging: Read an immigrant story.
- Forbidden Pages: Choose a banned book.
- Future Worlds: Dive into a science fiction novel.
- Generations Unfold: Experience a sweeping family saga.
- Size Surprises: Choose a book brick (500+ pages) or a novella.
- Cover Crush: Read a book with an irresistible cover.
- Ugly Ducklings: Give a book with an unappealing cover a chance.
- Ruby Reads Await: Have you re(a)d this book?
- Club Selections: Read a book club favorite.
- Positive Vibes: Choose a book that promotes positive thinking.