Winter Reading

Snowy evening background with pine tree silhouette. Text: Winter Reading San Jose Public Library.
Snowy forested background. Text: Winter Reading San Jose Public Library.

It's Time for Winter Reading!

December 1, 2025 - January 4, 2026

Winter Reading returns to San José Public Library! All ages are encouraged to complete either 4 hours of reading or 4 books to qualify for grand prizes, including games, toys and electronics.

Anyone can register and collect a free giveaway prize at any SJPL location.

Log your reading through the Beanstack website or mobile app to qualify for grand prize selection. Those who reach the reading goal can collect a second giveaway prize, either a free book or fun tote bag.

 

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Register on Beanstack

Get the App

Register and track your reading for a chance to WIN prizes.

Giveaway Prizes

Register and receive a free giveaway prize. Reach the reading goal by Jan. 4, 2026 and receive a second giveaway prize.

Available while supplies last.

YOUTH
Winter themed temporary tattoos

ADULTS
Keychain

Grand Prizes

Complete the Winter Reading program to earn a chance to win a grand prize.

Pre-Readers (ages 0-5)
Modular Play Couch

Readers (ages 5-10)
Kids Art Easel

Pre-teen (ages 10-12)
Wireless Gaming Keyboard

Teen (ages 12-18)
Portable Photo Printer Gift Bundle

Adults (ages 18+)
Retro Bluetooth CD Player

Winter Reading Blogs

Christmas Fiction Selections for 2025!

Get ready for the Holiday Season with some book selections from our Fiction shelves!
Snowy evening background with pine tree silhouette. Text: Winter Reading San Jose Public Library.

Break a Winter Reading Record!

Are you ready to try for a new reading record to end the year?
Snowy forested background. Text: Winter Reading San Jose Public Library.

Winter Reading is Back!

Winter is slowly creeping up on us – and it’s bringing shorter days, longer nights, chilly temperatures, and a hoard of holidays!
Stacked of books with a string of lights, and a bow wrapped them up. Text reads: SJPL Staff's Top Books of 2024

SJPL Staff: Our Favorite Books of 2024

Before the new year, let's see SJPL library staff's Top Reads this year! You'll find books of all genres, format, and types!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, you cannot collection prize books or giveaway prizes after the program ends. 

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  • YES. Youth can be registered for Winter Reading on their own AND as part of a class/group, as there are separate grand prize contests for groups and individuals. Contact us with any additional questions.

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  • There will be five grand prizes awarded in all. One grand prize per age group (see grand prize descriptions). The group grand prize are book bundles of age-appropriate titles.

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  • YES. Any student who is registered for Winter Reading as part of a class/group can claim a giveaway prize, same as anyone else. All giveaways MUST be claimed in person at a local SJPL branch. Giveaway prizes WILL NOT be set aside on site or sent to local schools. Educators, please remind students to claim their giveaway prize in person at any SJPL location.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

  • YES, all adults and youth MUST claim their free participation prize IN PERSON at any SJPL location.

    Related Page: Winter Reading

Arrow raising up. Text: Read to Raise - SJPLF Winter Reading Fundraiser.

Read to Raise

Find out how you can support Winter Reading through the San José Public Library Foundation.

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