Winter Reading Challenge Programs

Calling geeks of all kinds! Do you like impressing people with your wide range of nerdy knowledge? Join our team and compete with other Library lovers to answer humor-themed trivia.

Whether you want to try something new, get out of your shell, or see if comedy and performance is a direction you are interested in, this program is the place to start. Attendees will improve their listening skills, confidence, team-building, trust, and collaboration skills. And everyone WILL have fun!

Monday, February 13 | 6:30 p.m.
Blue Springs North

Saturday, February 25 | 10:30 a.m.
East Lee's Summit

Wednesday, March 1 | 7:00 p.m.
North Independence

Did you know laughter releases endorphins in the body, creating positive feelings of well-being? We’ll use laughter to increase deep breathing, and breathing IS yoga. Let go of ego and let's have some fun!

Wednesday, February 1 | 6:30 p.m.
East Lee's Summit

Tuesday, February 7 | 7:00 p.m.
Blue Springs North

Saturday, February 18 | 2:00 p.m.
Red Bridge

Tuesday, February 21 | 6:30 p.m.
Lee's Summit

Tuesday, February 28 | 7:00 p.m.
Virtual

Bring in your brand new Winter Reading Challenge mug for a free cup of coffee. Then stick around to chat about your favorite reads from the Challenge.

Tuesday, January 17 | 7:00 p.m.
ZOOM

Actress, activist, and comedian Betty White was a woman of many achievements both on and off the screen. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for this special presentation about the early years, career highlights, and legacy of Betty White.

Tuesday, February 7 | 7:00 p.m.
ZOOM

I Love Lucy was an iconic and groundbreaking sitcom that television pioneers brought to the screen. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the history and development of I Love Lucy, the show's on- and off-screen achievements, and its legacy today. 

Thursday, February 23 | 2:00 p.m.
ZOOM

Radio marked the first time that large-scale entertainment came to us, rather than the other way around. Radio historian Steve Darnall will explore the early years of radio humor and show how it evolved from its vaudeville roots to embrace radio as a "theater of the mind." Participants will hear sound clips from comedians who became famous on radio, including Ed Wynn, Jack Benny, Bob Hope and Edgar Bergen.

Thursday, March 2 | 2:00 p.m.
ZOOM

Whether over the airwaves or on the silver screen, the classic comedy genre benefited from many beloved comedic partnerships. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents early comedy's top partnerships, including Abbott & Costello, Burns & Allen, Laurel & Hardy, Martin & Lewis, and more.