Read with Lake Forest Library
Why We Read
We are happy you have decided to read with your family, friends, neighbors, and us! Lake Forest Library Reading Programs are designed to encourage shared reading experiences, thoughtful discussions, and meaningful community connections. For students, reading outside of school also helps enhance their academic abilities and maintain skills over school breaks.
In addition to reading, our reading programs often invite you to attend Library programs, complete fun activities, or tackle other challenges to enhance your reading journey. Not to mention prizes!
On this page you'll find details about a specific reading program. All programs can be completed using paper logs -OR- online using the Beanstack app. If you have any questions about the program or using Beanstack, please call us at 847-234-0636 or send us a message.
Using the Beanstack App
Absolutely! The Library continues to provide paper logs for all reading programs. They are available to download and print below, or you can pick them up at the Children's Circulation Desk or Adult Reference Desk.
- Download the free Beanstack app from your device's app store.
- Open the app and select "At my library, school, or bookstore."
- Select "Find a site."
- Search for "Lake Forest Library" and select it from the search results.
- Create your Beanstack app account using your email address and making up a password.
- *Tip* You can add multiple readers to the same account (such as your partner or children), and every reader can join different challenges.
- Select "Challenges" and join the current challenge.
If you prefer, you can create a Beanstack account and access open challenges in your browser by visiting the Library's Beanstack page at lakeforestlibrary.org/beanstack.
If you don’t remember if you have an account, contact us by calling 847.234.0636 or emailing reference@lakeforestlibrary.org.
- Open the Beanstack app or visit lakeforestlibrary.org/beanstack in your browser.
- Select "Sign In" and enter your email address and password.
- Select "Challenges" and enroll in the current reading program.
- Begin reading, completing activities, and logging your progress!
If you forgot what email address you used when creating your Beanstack account, contact us by calling 847.234.0636 or emailing reference@lakeforestlibrary.org.
- Open the Beanstack app or visit lakeforestlibrary.org/beanstack in your browser.
- Sign in.
- If you have multiple readers on the same account (such as you and your children), you can switch between readers by tapping or selecting your name, initials, or profile image.
- In the app, tap the big plus sign ➕. If you're using the browser, select "Log reading and activities."
- Follow the prompts to enter your achievements.
You can always ask your Lake Forest Librarians for help. Call us at 847.234.0636 or emailing send us a message.
In the app:
- Tap the gear icon ⚙
- Tap help
In your browser: Info coming soon.
Winter Reading
(Past Program) Reading in a Winter Wonderland 2023–24
Thank you for your interest in this past event, survey, or contest. The information may no longer be up-to-date or active.
Whether you’re snowed in and dreaming by the fire or gone away like the bluebird, winter is the perfect time to strengthen good reading habits.
How to participate
Winter Reading programs run December 15, 2023–January 31, 2024.
Track your reading and earn prizes in one of two ways:
- On our paper log sheets
Paper logs are available in the Library or can be downloaded below.
OR - With the Beanstack app
Download Beanstack from your device's app store. For help, refer to the Using the Beanstack app FAQs.
Complete your reading challenge and visit the Library to redeem your prize(s) by January 31!
Youth Prizes
Earn 1 book prize for every 10 days you read or listen to books. (Limit 2)
Earn 1 ticket for every 10 days you read or listen to books. (Limit 2)
Enter your tickets into the grand prize drawing for a chance to win a $50 gift card to either Sweet's (yum!) or Pasquesi Home and Gardens (puzzles and Tonies and toys, oh my!).
Blind Date with a Book
Ducklings Mini Art
