Winter Reading Challenges Around Columbus

Winter is here, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a favorite book or 10. Libraries across Central Ohio make it even more fun with Winter Reading Challenges.

James Joyce 1917 book open on chair in chilly scene with fire and candles in background

Whether you’re looking for a family activity, motivation to tackle your TBR list, or a reason to explore local libraries, there are plenty of programs to jump into this winter. Here’s a look at what’s happening for the 2025–2026 season.

Below are the top winter reading challenges around Columbus, including programs from major library systems and a unique OSU bingo challenge.

Columbus Metropolitan Library Winter Reading Challenge

Dates: January 5 – February 27, 2026

Columbus Metropolitan Library encourages readers to stay engaged during the winter months with its annual Winter Reading Challenge. Kids and teens can track their reading through Beanstack or pick up a game board at any CML branch. Completing the challenge earns participants a free book and a drawstring bag. Additional read-a-thon logging offers even more chances to win prizes.

Register as an individual or family, or teachers and homeschool parents can register a class!

Register here.

Grandview Heights Public Library Winter Reading Challenge

Dates: December 22, 2025 – February 15, 2026

Grandview Heights Public Library offers an all-ages winter reading program that invites everyone to cozy up with a good book this season. Readers earn raffle entries for every book they finish, with prizes and prize baskets awarded at the end of the challenge. Registration is available online at ghpl.org/wrc2026.

Westerville Public Library Winter Reading Challenge

Dates: December 1 – February 28, 2026

Westerville’s Winter Reading Challenge is open to all ages and allows readers to set personalized goals. After logging their books online, participants earn a prize—typically including a free book and coupons to local shops and restaurants. It’s a flexible and simple option for families and individuals.

Details here.

Delaware County District Library Winter Reading Club

Dates: December 1 – January 31, 2026

Delaware County’s program uses a simple bookmark system that encourages reading and participation in library events. Completed bookmarks can be turned in for entries to win themed prize baskets, making it an easy and fun activity through the winter break.

Details here. 

Licking County Library Winter Reading Program

Dates: January 2 – February 28, 2026

Licking County Library offers a winter reading program for adults through Beanstack. Participants log reading minutes, write reviews, and complete optional activities to earn raffle entries. It’s an engaging challenge for adults who enjoy mixing reading goals with fun prompts. Register here.

Ohio State Alumni Association Winter Reading Bingo

Dates: January 1 – March 31, 2026

Open to both teens and adults, the Ohio State Alumni Association’s Winter Reading Bingo Challenge offers a digital bingo card filled with fun reading categories. Each completed bingo line earns an entry into a prize drawing. You don’t need to be an OSU alum to join, making it a creative statewide option for winter reading motivation.

Details and register here!

With winter reading challenges happening across Columbus and its surrounding counties, it’s easy to find a program that fits your reading style or family routine.

Whether you’re looking for a simple bingo board, a digital tracking system, or a chance to win prizes, these seasonal challenges provide plenty of reasons to enjoy a good book during the colder months.

Find this article too late?

Local libraries offer Summer Reading programs around Columbus too! Updates will be made in the Spring once the programs are released.