Never Stop Exploring!
Embark on an Endless Journey with Mid-Continent Public Library’s 2026 Winter Reading Challenge!
Trade your frozen commute for uncharted trails as books become the passports to breathtaking new worlds. Whether navigating the dizzying heights of a fantasy realm, trekking through the historical landscapes of a bygone era, or setting sail for the distant shores, your exploration begins as you turn the page.
The Winter Reading Challenge allows adults (ages 18+) to celebrate leisure reading and earn an incentive – the limited edition 2026 Winter Reading Challenge mug – by reading ANY five books in two months.
Kids and teens age 17 and under can read any five books to earn an MCPL book light to keep the reading going throughout the seasons.
Make sure to mark January 2-March 15 on your calendar, and prepare to lose yourself in the great adventures that await – right from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Want to enhance your reading experience?
Join a branch book group, or find an online book discussion. The Library will also offer a variety of programming to explore.
If you participated in the Winter Reading Challenge, we'd love to hear your feedback!
- Readers can participate by logging their reading in Beanstack (available for those 13+) or by filling out a paper log.
- Check out the Suggested Readings lists (see below) for recommendations. These titles have been selected by Library staff to provide a quality reading experience.
- Read any five books of your choosing between January 2 and March 15, 2026. Titles do not have to be included on the Suggested Readings list or within the WRC theme.
- List those five books on the online Reading Log beginning January 2 or pick up a paper log at any branch to track your progress. Once you have completed the Challenge, return the log to Library staff at any branch by March 15.
- Participate in discussions and programs hosted by MCPL staff on social media and at our programs.
- After you complete the Challenge and have logged your books online or turned in your log to your branch, claim your mug at any branch while supplies last. Kids and teens (17 and under) will also receive a prize while supplies last.
If you post online about what you are reading, use #mcplwinterread to stay connected!
Winter Reading Challenge FAQs
What are the dates of the program?
The program begins on January 2 and ends on March 15. All books must be logged in Beanstack or paper logs turned in to an MCPL branch by that date.
If I live outside of Kansas City, can I still participate?
We welcome anyone to participate, but only those living within the library's service district are eligible for a limited edition prize.
Can I only read books from the recommended list?
No, you can read any title you’d like!
Do audiobooks count? What about graphic novels?
Both audiobooks and graphic novels can be logged towards your goal.
Do my personal books (not checked out from the Library) count?
Yes, you are welcome to read books in your home collection.
Do books I read to my kids count?
Yes. However, while all books count, we encourage you to challenge yourself with teen or adult titles. The Winter Reading Challenge was created to encourage adult leisure reading.
Do I have to use the online tracking system?
No, you may use a paper log. Contact your branch to pick one up when you visit the branch or through curbside service.
What do I do if I have a paper log?
Drop off your paper log at the information desk or drive-up window at your local MCPL branch. Any paper log received by the end of March 15, 2026, will count for WRC completion.
How do I get a Winter Reading Challenge booklet?
Booklets are available inside the branch or through curbside service. If you’d like to pick one up through curbside service, contact your branch to request one.
When can I pick up my mug?
Feel free to stop by your local branch to pick up your mug whenever you complete the challenge. Prizes are available while supplies last.
Start the Journey
Start the Journey
Starting a series can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, as readers will find out with these series firsts!
Let's Hit the Road!
Let's Hit the Road!
This list contains captivating fiction novels that capture the adventure, freedom, and unexpected encounters of road trips. From heartfelt journeys across scenic landscapes to quirky adventures with memorable characters, these stories will inspire your wanderlust and remind you of the magic that happens on the open road. Perfect for travel enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike!
Modes of Transportation
Modes of Transportation
Whether you're traveling by train, plane, or boat, these stories prove that sometimes the journey can be more exciting--and adventurous--than the destination.
Quests and Journeys
Quests and Journeys
From ancient epics to contemporary adventures, these tales share one idea: the journey itself transforms those who take it. Begin your own reading quest and discover where the story leads.
International Reads
International Reads
Whether you're reading something in translation or set in another country, these titles will have you traveling all over the world.
Nonfiction Books for Road Trip Enthusiasts
Nonfiction Books for Road Trip Enthusiasts
Explore the open road with this curated list of compelling nonfiction books that delve into the adventures, histories, and stories behind unforgettable road trips. Perfect for wanderers and armchair travelers alike, these titles offer inspiring journeys, insightful travel tales, and practical tips to fuel your own adventures on the highway.
Personal Journeys
Personal Journeys
Discover powerful stories of transformation, resilience, and self-discovery with this curated selection of non-fiction books that explore personal journeys. Perfect for those seeking motivation or reflection, these titles offer heartfelt insights into overcoming challenges, embracing change, and finding one’s true path in life.
Explore the World through Food
Explore the World through Food
These ten titles will take you around the world as you read about tradition, hidden gems, and the authors own experiences chasing the best eats the world has to offer.
Explore Nature
Explore Nature
Discover the wonders of the natural world, from breathtaking views and wildlife encounters to personal reflections on our connection with the environment.
Books for Teens
Space Journeys
Space Journeys
Explore beyond the stars with these of this word stories for sci-fi fans and space enthusiasts.
Going Abroad
Going Abroad
From Paris to Pakistan, from Tokyo to Taipei, these stories follow teens as they explore new places and uncover who they are. Whether they’re reconnecting with family, chasing dreams abroad, or finding unexpected romance, each journey brings a new sense of discovery. No passport required.
Books for Kids
Kid Spies!
Kid Spies!
Have you been on the lookout for espionage, adventure, cool gadgets, and clever puzzles? Go undercover with these amazing spy-kids and help save the day!
Get Outside!
Get Outside!
School-age kids will enjoy these titles all about Getting Outside! Adventure stories, spooky tales, and illustrated field guides are all ways to engage with the Great Outdoors.
Take This Show on the Road!
Take This Show on the Road!
Reading books opens up the world of opportunities for travel, ways to experience other cultures around the world, and to check out the exciting ways to get there: like trains, planes, boats, trucks, and automobiles. Roll on, readers!
Explore Your Neighborhood
Explore Your Neighborhood
Take a step into the neighborhood and let the adventure begin! What do you see as you wander down the sidewalk?