Join Winter Reads, a wintertime adult reading program. It inspires adults to enjoy the simple pleasures of snuggling up with books and connecting with others in a welcoming and stress-free environment at library events. Sign up and between Jan. 12–Feb. 28 to be entered for a chance to win a prize.
How it works
Visit any Dakota County Library location between Jan. 12–Feb. 28 and sign up at the service desk. Fill out a simple entry form and drop it into the box for a chance to win a book bundle. You will also receive a bingo card and book review slips to bring home and return to the library for additional entries into the weekly prize drawing.
Drawings will be held at each location weekly through the end of February, and winners contacted by the library. After signing up, check out a stack of books large enough to keep you reading through the end of February. The more book reviews you complete, the greater your odds at winning a prize.
Winter Reads online
If you prefer to participate online, register with an online form.
Once you are registered, you can complete book reviews online for a chance to win a prize.
Drawings will be held weekly through the end of February. Winners will be contacted by the library with prizes mailed to you. If you need assistance, please call your local library location or email library.programs@co.dakota.mn.us.
Need reading suggestions?
Try Book Match for a personalized list of some new authors and titles you might enjoy.
Looking for a book group?
Find a book discussion group that matches your location, interests and availability.
Winter Reads kickoff events
Join us for author events, fun and games, and creative arts classes as we kick off the Winter Reads 2026 adult reading program.
Paint & Pour: Frosted Winter Coasters
Create a beautiful set of ceramic coasters using the acrylic paint pouring method. Learn how to mix paints to the right consistency and use "dirty pour" or "flip cup" techniques to create mesmerizing abstract patterns that evoke frozen lakes and swirling snow. Presented by Make with Sam. For adults.
Wescott
Monday, Jan. 12, 5–7 p.m.
Heritage
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 5–7 p.m.
Trivia Night
Join us for a fresh batch of enjoyably challenging questions about all kinds of topics. Presented by Minneapolis-based Trivia Mafia. Limited to the first 50 participants. For adults.
Farmington
Monday, Jan. 12, 7–8 p.m.
Inver Glen
Tuesday, Jan. 13, 6–7:30 p.m.
Pleasant Hill
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 5:30–7 p.m.
Book Bingo
Drop in to sign up for Winter Reads and play bingo for a chance to win books. For adults.
Kaposia
Tuesday, Jan. 13, 7–8 p.m.
Burnhaven
Thursday, Jan.15, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Meet Author Frank Bures
Join us as local author Frank Bures discusses his book "Pushing the River: An Epic Battle, a Lost History, a Near Death, and Other True Canoeing Stories." Bures will tell stories about the historic Paul Bunyan Canoe Derby, his own near-death canoeing experience, the Mississippi River Guinness world paddling record and more. For adults.
Galaxie
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6–7 p.m.
Meet the Author: Colonel B. Wayne Quist, USAF, Retired
Join us as Colonel B. Wayne Quist, USAF, Retired discusses his book "Veterans in Crisis: Treating the Unique Needs of Those Who Served." Veterans in Crisis offers knowledge and hope for millions of veterans and others who suffer from trauma and PTSD. Presented in partnership with the Rosemount Area Arts Council. For adults.
Robert Trail
Thursday, Jan. 15, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Winter Reads is presented in partnership with the Metropolitan Library Agency (MELSA). There is no cost to participate or attend events.
