Reading Programs & Challenges :: VBgov.com

Reading Programs & Challenges

The Virginia Beach Public Library offers reading programs and challenges for readers of all ages. From the seasonal kid's Summer Reading Challenge to the adult's Annual Reading Challenge, there's something here for everyone!

After creating an account in Beanstack, you will be able to see all the reading options for your age range. If you have multiple readers on your account, click on the reader at the top left of the page, select "Change Readers," and pick the reader you are registering.

To sign up or log your reading, either download the Beanstack Tracker mobile app for Android or iOS or use the links below.

Adults

2023 Annual Reading Challenge

Banner depicting a blue flag with a white star, the VBPL logo, and text reading "Annual Reading Challenge."

Choose your own adventure with three reading goals to pick from in 2023! Challenge yourself to read 12, 24, or 52 books and receive a canvas bag, exclusive reading lists, and recommendations from library staff throughout the year. Complete 12 optional reading prompts for an extra digital badge.

Canvas bags are now available for pickup.

Teens

2023 Teen Readers Society

Banner with orange and purple badge-style logo depicting a stack of books and laurel leaves with the text "Teen Readers Society"

Teen Readers Society is a fun, social community of teen readers! Find your next read with reading prompts for every week of the year. Read one, some or read them all! Throughout the year, you’ll receive invites to members-only programs and meet other teens who love reading. You can make your mark on the library by sharing your favorite books and leaving recommendations for other teens through interactive library displays.

Kids

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

What is the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge?

This library program encourages all Virginia Beach families and caregivers to read at least 1,000 books with their young children before they enter kindergarten.

Reading to preschool-age children builds vocabulary and helps develop the language skills they need for kindergarten. In as little as 15 minutes a day, families can build the skills for future school and life success.

Who can participate?

Preschool-age children (0-5 years old) with their families/caregivers.

How Does 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Work?

Register or sign in online – Visit your library to pick up a free badge book
Track your reading – Log the titles you read with your child, enjoy the badge book activities together and visit the library to receive a sticker each time you read 100 books
Read more books – Keep logging until you reach 1,000 books
Celebrate! – When you reach 1,000 books, visit the library to receive your book bag and a free book of your choice to keep!

Tips:

Count any books that are read to your child, no matter who reads the books. Children learn through repetition - you can read the same book multiple times. Books read at storytime count, too. Learn about storytimes .

Summer Reading Challenge

June 12 to Aug. 19
For children ages 0 through grade 8
Registration begins June 12, 2023.
Register online, select Picture Book or Chapter Book reader option (details below), and log your reading to earn prizes.
Get started now at Beanstack. The Beanstack Tracker mobile app is also available for Android or iOS.
For more information, visit the Summer Reading Challenge page.

Thanks!

Thanks to the Friends of the Virginia Beach Public Library and Virginia Beach Library Foundation for their continued funding of Virginia Beach Public Library’s reading programs and challenges for all ages! Their support makes it all possible.