Everyone can be part of the Ultimate Summer Challenge. This shared reading adventure is a great way to connect, discover, and keep learning all summer long.
Whether you're just getting started or already taking part, there's still time to read every day, discover new stories, attend programs, and earn prizes until August 31.
Join the Challenge Today
Ready to join the adventure? Sign up to officially join the Challenge and be eligible for prizes.
Watch the video to learn how to register in Beanstack and get started.
Once you've created your account and completed your reader profile, you're ready for the Ultimate Summer Challenge!
Don't forget, it's easy to have multiple readers added to one profile.
Pick up a summer in the mountains themed Challenge map at any Library location or Download the Challenge Map to print out. For every seven days of reading, visit your Library to pick up a new sticker for your map.
All summer long, track your reading every day in Beanstack.
Head to your Library and share your progress, show off your map, participate in scavenger hunts, and fill out your badge to display.
There are incredible prizes that you could win for every age group participating in the challenge.
Ages 0 – 5: Owls' Nest Book Bundle, Telus Spark Family Membership, Zoo Engage Family Membership
Ages 6 – 12: Kobo eReader, Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Bundle, Telus Spark Family Membership, Zoo Engage Family Membership, Heritage Park Family Membership, LEGO Arctic Animals Science Kit, Owls' Nest Book Bundle, World in a Box Subscription
Ages 13 – 17: Kobo eReader, Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Bundle, AirPods Pro 3, LEGO NASA Package, Manga Box Set.
Ages 18+: Kobo eReader, AirPods Pro 3, Studio Bell Family Membership, LEGO Art Vincent Van Gogh Starry Night, LEGO Sherlock Holmes Book Nook, District Box, Indigenous Box, Acre75 Box Year Subscription, Slow Burn Books Prize pack
Kids Ages 5 to 9
Try one of these chapter books as a read aloud for families. There are mysteries, realistic fiction, sports, and fantasy so there should be something for everyone.
Kids Ages 9 to 12
These realistic (and two somewhat magical) middle grade titles explore friendship, crushes, and how to deal with both.
Kids Ages 5 to 9
Try a book from this list this summer and learn something new.
Babies and Toddlers
It's natural for small children to test boundaries and assert independence and ownership. Snuggle up with these books to learn about interacting kindly and cooperatively with others.
Babies and Toddlers
Beat the heat with these stories of summer fun, sunshine, and adventure. Follow along as these characters find new ways to enjoy the season and stay cool in the summer heat.
Kids ages 5 to 9
Brightly coloured covers will inspire you to get a vitamin D dose by reading one of these titles out in the sunshine.
Kids ages 9 to 12
Looking for a thrill? Read one of these titles all about survival. You can even learn some survival how-tos.
Kids ages 5 to 9
Celebrate warmer weather with this list all about sweet treats for kids in Kindergarten to Grade 3.
Kids Ages 5 to 9
Enjoy these children's books by Canadian authors.
Babies and Toddlers
Cool off this summer with these fishy tales of life under the sea and around the shore.
Kids ages 5 to 9
Dig into books about dinosaurs, archaeology, beaches, caves, and the exciting discoveries waiting beneath the surface.
Teens
No need to hunt for the first book, we have your series starters right here.
Teens
Fall right into a romance read about first loves, friendships, and figuring it all out.
Teens
Thinking of starting up your own book club? Try using one of these titles!
Teens
Celebrate Canada and read Canadian stories!
Teens
Travel through time with characters in these books to the past or to the future.
Adults
Join the Ultimate Summer Challenge and dive into one of our recommendations, perfect for the beach, couch, or backyard.
Adults
These are the July titles our Calgary Public Library Selectors are most excited to read!
Adults
Inspired by the breakaway book club hit, these books will appeal to readers who enjoy emotional and reflective, character-driven fiction and epistolary texts.
Adults
Is the book better than the film? You be the judge! Here are the most anticipated book-to-screen adaptations for 2026.
Adults
Spring has sprung! Enjoy a sample of fresh-picked titles packed with expert advice, inspiration, and step-by-step instruction for gardeners and landscape enthusiasts at every level.
Adults
Get your adrenaline pumping with these summertime thrillers.
Adults
Get your reading wheels rolling with the perfect variety of books dedicated to hitting the road.
Adults
It's a great time to get outside with these always available titles, perfect for group or solo adventures. Just plan your route and hit play!
Adults
Top Titles from Canadian Publishers.
Celebrate the Ultimate Summer Challenge with fun-filled afternoon parties at select Library locations throughout the summer. Bring the whole family for storytimes, dancing, snacks, and special activities that make reading even more fun.
Follow along on social media for the latest Ultimate Summer Challenge updates, including giveaways and fun photo opportunities at locations across the city.
Tag us and use our hashtag as you share pictures of books that you’ve read, programs you’ve attended, or the progress on your map.
#UltimateSummerChallenge
