Open Books Reading Challenge

What Is 'Open Books'?

The Open Books Reading Challenge is a year-long reading challenge for people interested in pushing the boundaries of their reading.

Here's how it works: We give you a list of 15 challenge categories. You'll have until the end of the year to read a book from at least 12 of those categories (that's just one book a month!). If you happen to read a book that falls into more than one category, you can count it more than once! 

If you finish, you'll get a coffee mug or other prize that you can use to brag about your accomplishment!

Need help finding a book for some of these categories? Check out the lists below, ask a library staff member, or join the Open Books Facebook group to discuss what you're reading with fellow challengers!

The Challenge

To participate:

1. Download the Open Books Checklist (PDF), or pick up a copy at the library. 
2. Read a book in a least 12 of the 15 categories. 
3. Return your checklist to the Library before December 31 to redeem your prize!

Here's what you'll be reading in 2024:

• A book with the main character’s name in the title
• A book by a Minnesota author
• In honor of Rochester’s Sister City partnerships with Muenster and Moosburg an der Isar, Germany, read a book set in Germany or written by a German author
• A Pulitzer, Caldecott, or Newbery award winner
• A book set in or about the Olympics and Olympic sports
• A book published in a leap year (2024, 2020, 2016, 2012, etc.)
• A book with the word “First” in the title
• A book with the word “Last” in the title
• A book about the justice system or incarceration
• A book with an animal in the title
• A book about refugees
• A book recommended by a library staff member
• A book set in the Middle Ages (500-1500)
• A book with an urban setting
• A book from the Overdrive/Libby app

This year's Open Books Challenged is sponsored by a SELCO Community Reads Grant which is funded by the people of Minnesota through the Arts and Cultural Heritage/Library Legacy Fund.