Join us for the 2025-2026 Winter Reading Program!
Dec. 19 – Feb. 6
Embark on your Winter Reading Adventure!
Set out on a quest to read, imagine and create your own adventure! Read what interests you, earn chances to win prizes, and flex your creative muscles with programs and activities that make the journey fascinating and fun!
Here’s how to get started:
- Pick up your Winter Reading packet at the library starting Fri., Dec. 19 or download the ReaderZone app.
- Log your reading minutes using the print tracker (in your packet or download below) or in the ReaderZone app, code 956c5.
- For every 200 minutes you read, unlock a new chapter and earn a raffle ticket! Pick up tickets and enter raffles for the basket of your choice on First Floor.
- Earn additional raffle tickets when you attend special winter library programs. See the full list here.
- Bonus activity: Write your own adventure! Let your imagination take flight as you polish your writing skills with this Mad Libs-style story activity. Create characters, activate their powers and send them on grand quests to write your own fantastical adventure tale! Materials available at the library or download below. Want to share your story? Bring it to our End of Winter Reading Party!
- Join us on Feb. 6 for our End of Winter Reading Party and costume contest!
Prizes await! Win one of these epic adventure-themed baskets:
- The Hero’s Basket: Packed with gifts and swag from Adventure Games and House of Heroes!
- Spark Your Own Adventure Kit: Everything you need to launch your own quest!
- Draw Your Own Comics Kit: Artists and storytellers, let your imagination run wild with supplies to create your own comic universe!
Deadline to enter our raffle is Feb 13. Winners will be drawn and announced Feb 16.
Questions or need help to participate? Call 920.236.5208.
Create a story with us! Every 200 minutes turn-in unlocks a new chapter. Participating from home? Use these links to download each story sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
A fun, free program that encourages people of all ages to read. You track your reading, earn prizes, and join a community of readers across Oshkosh.
Because reading is good for your brain, your mood, and your community.
You can start reading any time within the program dates. Just choose your tracker style and begin logging your time.
- Digital: Download the Reader Zone app and enter code.
- Paper: Download a paper tracker or pick one up at the library.
Anything you enjoy! Books, magazines, audiobooks, blogs, comics and more. Read to yourself, to someone else, or be read to. It all counts.
When you complete your map tracker or hit 1000 logged minutes, you've completed the program. However, you can continue to log minutes for as long as you like!
Incentives include coloring sheets, story sheets, small items, and raffle entries. All items are available while supplies last.
You’ll be entered to win themed baskets:
- The Hero’s Basket: Packed with gifts and swag from Adventure Games and House of Heroes!
- Spark Your Own Adventure Kit: Everything you need to launch your own quest!
- Draw Your Own Comics Kit: Artists and storytellers, let your imagination run wild with supplies to create your own comic universe!
Winners will be contacted after Feb 13.
Come to the library any time during the program to have your tracker stamped and collect your prizes. Incentives and prizes cannot be mailed.
Call us at (920) 236-5208 or email youth@oshkoshlibrary.org
Upcoming Events
Winter Reading Program
Create Your Own Comics
Wizarding: Create House Ties & Begin Potions Training
This challenge is designed for children ages 0-5. The program will help you make a habit out of reading, writing, talking, singing, and playing with your young child. Doing these activities increases children’s early literacy skills—the skills needed to be able to learn how to read once they begin school.
The goal is to read 1000 books with your child by the time they reach kindergarten.
You can easily register at our Youth Services Desk. When you register, you will receive a tote bag and booklet designed to guide you and your child through the challenge. We are partnering with Reader Zone to offer online tracking! Use code 6966c in ReaderZone to join the program.
For every 100 books, your name will go on our 1000 Books Challenge Wall. You will also earn prizes along the way that include books and early learning toys!
For more information, visit our 1000 Books Reading Challenge page!