Winter Reading 2026: Read with Benny, sponsored by Steps to Literacy

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This January, we are partnering with Steps to Literacy to welcome all libraries and schools across North America to join our ninth annual winter reading challenge, which features our very own Benny the Bean and offers the chance to win exciting prizes! As we kick off the new year with fresh resolutions, we remind readers that, while the journey of reading is fun and rewarding for all ages, it is even more enjoyable when you share that journey with a friend or loved one. Participants will earn fun, Benny-themed badges for logging their reading and completing activities So, grab a book and join Benny for an unforgettable reading adventure!

Spread the Word

We provide everything you need to promote your challenge, including bookmarks, social media images, flyers, posters, and postcards.

Share challenge information in your community newsletter:

From Jan. 1–31, [insert school/library name] is joining the nationwide Read with Benny Winter Reading Challenge, sponsored by Beanstack and Steps to Literacy. Our goal: read [insert goal] together this January! Log reading at [Beanstack site/app link]. Thousands of schools and libraries are joining in—help us bring home the win!

Tag us on Social Media: 

Use hashtags #WinterRead2026 and #ReadwithBenny, and tag us for a boost:
Facebook: facebook.com/zoobean
Instagram: @zoobean
X (Twitter): @zoobeanreads

Prizes & Eligibility

All libraries and schools are eligible to join the challenge for a chance to win these prizes for the top-performing communities:

🏆 Grand Prize
$1000 Steps to Literacy gift card (1 library and 1 school)

🌟 Honorable Mention:
$250 Steps to Literacy gift card (1 library and 1 school)


🎉 Runner up:
$50 gift card (24 total schools and libraries)

To qualify for prizes from Beanstack, your school/library must be an active Beanstack partner and set up a winter reading challenge by Dec. 15, 2025.


Note: By participating in this challenge, participants agree to allow their school or library's name to be publicly announced if they are selected as a winner.

Need help? Open a support ticket at beanstack.com/support.

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