New for 2025!
Introducing Gold Medal Books, our K-12 year-round reading program! This program is designed to encourage school-age children to read a wide variety of quality books, no matter their age or grade level.
Who can participate? Any school-age child, beginning with 5-year-old kindergarten, up through 12th grade, is welcome to join. Children do not have to be enrolled in the New Glarus School District, or have a card with the New Glarus Public Library. However, all incentives must be picked up in person here at the library, as we are unable to ship.
What if my child isn't reading independently yet? We encourage you to start with the picture books on the Caledcott list, the early readers on the Geisel list, or some of the simpler chapter books on the Newbery list, and read aloud to your child. Listening to audiobooks also counts! For picture books, we encourage you to follow along in the print book while listening to the recording, so that you can view and enjoy the illustrations, which are an integral part of the story.
How do we keep track of the reading? Reading may be reported by using our paper reading log and turning it in to the library when full, or by using our handy online form. Older students who are able to write and use a computer independently are encouraged to bookmark the online form so they may submit their progress with each book they finish.
How do we sign up? You can sign up in person at the library, or complete this online registration form for each child who wishes to participate. Each child who signs up will get a canvas tote bag, which must be picked up in person. Paper reading logs are also available at the library.
What prizes do we earn? We believe that reading is its own reward, and as such, we don't award prizes, per se. Instead, we recognize children's reading accomplishments with specialized buttons for each reading challenge completed. The buttons can be collected and displayed on your tote bag, backpack, jacket, or other item of clothing. Free books (or book vouchers) may also be awarded periodically!
What are the reading challenges? Challenges are specific to each category of award-winning books (Caldecott, Newbery, etc.). More details about available challenges can be found on the pages linked below. New challenges will be added periodically, so be sure to check in regularly!
Which books count for which challenge? With so many books to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to start. If your child is trying to earn a particular badge, this list of books may help you get started. Please note that the title list for each badge isn't necessarily exhaustive, but it does identify books that can be used to earn various badges.
This program is made possible by a generous grant from the Community Foundation of New Glarus.