It's the new year, which means it's time to kick off Winter Reads, our winter reading program for adults! In January and February, read books, share your thoughts, and win prizes!

After you finish a book, stop in to your local WashCoLib branch to fill out a brief review form (or fill it out online from the comfort of your couch). After you turn in your first review, you'll win a cozy pair of Winter Reads socks and be entered in our grand prize drawing for a bundle of great books. Every review you complete is a chance to win a book bundle, so read and share as much as you can in January and February. Learn more on our website.

Keep reading for more collection and program highlights coming up this month!

Our top checkouts of 2019

Not sure what to read next? Maybe the readers of Washington County can help! Last month we rounded-up our most checked out books for kids and teens, as well as the top fiction and nonfiction for adults. These three lists include 60 of our top titles, from memoirs to thrillers to kids series and picture books. Use these lists, in combination with our catalog's new recommendation features, to find your next great read.

Celebrate Valley Library January 11

Help us celebrate the re-opening of Valley Library on Saturday, January 11! Stop in any time from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to enjoy snacks and refreshments in the new space. At 11 a.m. we'll take a moment to pause and recognize all of the hard work that's gone into opening this beautiful new space with a ceremony and ribbon cutting. We hope to see you there!

Check out our Memory Minder Kits

This month we've launched our new Memory Minder Kits, a tool for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. Each Memory Minder Kit includes a collection of items meant to trigger memories of life experiences and prompt more engaging and positive interactions. The kits include a book, puzzle or game, conversational cards, and a CD or DVD. Browse and reserve a kit in our catalog, or pick one up at any WashCoLib branch.

It's time for some trivia!

Gather up a team and join us for some trivia this month! We'll be hosting a family trivia night (with family-friendly questions for both kids and adults) on January 14 at 3rd Act Craft Brewery in Woodbury. Plus, Hardwood Creek Library will welcome Trivia Mafia for three Saturday afternoon competitions on January 11, January 25, and February 15. Not sure you're ready? The library is a perfect place to brush up on all sorts of fun facts before you play! Find all the info in our calendar.

Libraries closed for January holidays

All Washington County Library branches will be closed Monday, January 20 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Don't fret! Even though our buildings are closed, you can still access your library account on our website, WashCoLib.org, and check out ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines through our library apps.