In an effort to engage readers and foster literacy, the Maricopa County Library District has kicked off its annual Winter Reading Program for adults. This initiative not only offers the potential to win prizes but also helps participants connect with like-minded individuals.
Samantha Mears, who serves as the communications administrator for the library district, points out that the program primarily targets the county’s snowbird population. She states, “really figuring out how we can help build a sense of community and belonging when they’re here. So that is part of why we started the program. And of course, we’re a library. So we have other goals. Of course, around literacy.”
Participants have the flexibility to sign up either online or in person. Each minute spent engaged with reading materials—be it a physical book, e-book, or audiobook—is valued at one point.
Mears encourages participants to aim for a total of 500 points by the program’s conclusion on February 15. Additional points are up for grabs through library-hosted events. Last year, the community collectively logged 2.4 million reading minutes, and this year, the goal is to reach 2.5 million.
The program also extends its reach to Spanish-speaking participants. Mears explains, “Many folks actually use this program as a way to boost their English language learning. So while they might participate in Spanish, using the Spanish pages of this website and dashboard, they are reading it, using it to find books and find other language and literacy resources.”
Previously, around 3,000 participants from 14 libraries took part in this enriching initiative.
To join the program and begin tracking reading progress, visit the English site at winter.mcldaz.org or the Spanish site at invierno.mcldaz.org. The objective is to attain 500 points by February 15, 2026.
Participating Libraries
For comprehensive details about the program, visit winter.mcldaz.org/Info/frequently-asked-question.
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