Reading program kicks off with hot chocolate

The Algonquin Area Public Library's popular Winter Reading Program will run from Jan. 18 through Feb. 29, with the theme "We Love Reading."

This year's program kicks off with a hot chocolate bar from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18, at the Harnish Main Library, 2600 Harnish Road, west of Randall Road, and the Eastgate Branch Library, 115 Eastgate Drive, off Algonquin Road.

Readers of all ages can celebrate their love of reading and register to earn prizes, enter drawings and more.

Reading Goals for Kids: The library's youngest participants up to ninth grade can complete one log to earn a paperback book and a drawing entry. An additional five "bonus" book logs can be completed to earn more entries for drawing prizes, including gift cards, toys and plush animals.

High School Students Rock at Reading: Students in grades 9-12 can choose a paperback book just for signing up for Winter Reading. For every book read, up to five books, students will be automatically entered in the Grand Prize Drawing to win one of three 7" Kindle Fires. Students also can enter weekly drawings for an AMC movie ticket by visiting the Young Adult Librarian Office from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, except March 9.

Adults Rewarded for Reading: Adults can register for Winter Reading, pick up a "Book Bingo" card, and receive a themed pen with stylus. The card features squares containing books and activities that readers can complete for up to three "Bingos." Readers should return their card to the Adult Services Desk by Feb. 29 to be entered in a drawing for a Kindle Fire or a $50 gift card to Algonquin Commons. Adults who complete the entire card are invited to have their photo taken for the library's Facebook page.

If you have questions about the library's Winter Reading program and related events, visit www.aapld.org or call (847) 458-6060 during regular business hours.