Vernon Area's winter library challenge a family affair

Many readers and library-goers know about summer library clubs - the programs designed to thoughtfully engage kids when school is out. Meet the cold weather equivalent: the winter library challenge, designed to engage students over winter break and bring families together through a variety of activities. The all-ages program gets underway at Vernon Area Library on Saturday, December 22, and participants have until January 27 to complete five challenges.

Challenges are focused on togetherness and mood-boosting activities like playing a game, checking out a cookbook and making a meal or snack, getting outside or reading by firelight, all in good company. Anyone, ages 0 to 100, can sign up solo or with family or friends and work their way through the activity log.

While the activities yield their own rewards, the library sweetens the deal with a treat for signing up and a prize for completing five challenges. Plus, there are chances along the way to score swag like museum passes and movie gift cards.

Sign up at the Vernon Area Public Library, 300 Olde Half Day Road in Lincolnshire, anytime beginning December 22. Also, drop in at the kickoff event, a family maker lab, Saturday, December 22, 1 to 3 p.m. The event is free and open to all; no registration is required.