DeKalb County Public Library

26 in '26 Reading Challenge

Make 2026 a year of reading with our 26 in ‘26 Reading Challenge!

Adult readers · January 1 to December 31, 2026

From dekalblibrary.org/26-in-26-reading-challenge ↗

About this program

Make 2026 a year of reading with our 26 in '26 Reading Challenge!

The 26 in '26 Challenge guides adult readers through a year-long reading adventure. The challenge features 52 unique reading categories designed to help you discover new books and new authors. Read 26 books in 2026 to earn an exclusive enamel pin, or keep going and complete all 52 categories to unlock a special stretch goal prize.

Stay inspired with librarian-curated book lists, progress tracking, and virtual badges as you read.

Sign Up: Register for the challenge at dekalblibrary.beanstack.org. The challenge runs from January 1 — December 31, 2026.

Track Progress: After you've read a book that fits a category, find the corresponding badge in Beanstack and mark it off by entering your book title. Each book may be matched to only one category, and each category may only be completed one time.

Questions

Who can participate? Do I have to have a DeKalb County Library Card?

This challenge is for adults ages 18 and over. Non-cardholders may participate in the challenge; however if you win a prize, prizes must be picked up at a DeKalb County Public Library location. Unfortunately, we cannot mail prizes.

Can I use a different website or a paper log to keep track of my progress?

You may use whatever format works for you to keep track of progress; however, you must log your reads in Beanstack to win prizes.

Can I log books that I read in 2025 or earlier?

Only books read from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 will count for the challenge. However, if you start a book in 2025 and finish it in 2026, feel free to count it!

Can I read eBooks or listen to audiobooks for this challenge?

Absolutely! All types of books work for this challenge, including eBooks, audiobooks, and books written for any age group.

How will I receive prizes?

Prizes will be sent monthly to the library branch of your choosing. When your prize arrives, you will receive an email with pickup instructions.

Details

Who
Adult readers
When
January 1 to December 31, 2026
Where
Online
Ages
18 and over

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