Digging Up the Past: Join the NLRPLS 2026 Reading Challenge

Digging Up the Past: Join the NLRPLS 2026 Reading Challenge

At the North Little Rock Public Library System, we believe every story has layers. In 2026, we invite readers of all ages to grab a metaphorical shovel and dig a little deeper with our new Reading Challenge theme, Digging Up the Past.

This year-long challenge pairs perfectly with our 2026 Summer Library Adventure theme, Unearth a Story, and encourages readers to explore histories that are personal, cultural, ancient, and imagined. From long-buried family secrets to reimagined literary classics, each month offers a new way to uncover stories that shaped who we are and who we are becoming.

How the Reading Challenge Works

Each month, read a book or watch a movie that matches that month’s theme. After you finish, fill out an entry form below this post or at any NLRPLS library location or online at
https://www.cognitoforms.com/NLRlibrary1/ReadingChallenge

Participants may submit one entry per person, per month.

To help you along the way, NLRPLS staff will share reading and viewing recommendations throughout the year for each monthly challenge.

Prizes

Every month, one lucky reader will win a gift card to a local restaurant. At the end of the year, all monthly entries will be entered into a grand prize drawing for an e-reader.

2026 Monthly Reading Themes

January
Stories of Family Secrets
Hidden histories, long-held truths, and revelations that change everything.

February
Stories of Black Americans
Narratives that explore Black history, culture, resilience, and joy.

March
Stories of Women
Stories centered on women’s lives, voices, and experiences across time.

April
Stories of Nature
Books inspired by the natural world, the environment, and our connection to it.

May
Stories of Mental Health
Thoughtful reads that explore mental and emotional well-being.

June
Stories of the Past
Historical fiction and nonfiction that bring earlier eras vividly to life.

July
Stories of American Revolutions
Stories of change, resistance, and transformation in American history.

August
Stories of Yesteryear (pre-1950)
Classic and vintage reads published before 1950.

September
Stories of Fame & Celebrity
Behind-the-scenes looks at public lives, real or imagined.

October
Stories of Scares
Spine-tingling tales, mysteries, and eerie reads perfect for fall.

November
Stories of the Paleolithic Age
Stories that explore humanity’s earliest beginnings and ancient worlds.

December
Stories Redone
Retellings and reimaginings of beloved literary classics.

Ready to Start Digging?

Whether you join us for one month or all twelve, the 2026 Reading Challenge is a fun and flexible way to explore new genres, discover new authors, and connect with stories across time.

Follow along on our website and social media for monthly recommendations, and stop by your local library to log your reads, grab a suggestion, or just talk books with us.

Happy reading and happy digging!