![Poster for the Smokey Bear Reading Challenge. Reads "Celebrate Smokey Bear's 80th Birthday. Join Smokey in learning about wildfires and the environment. Read books, take action, and have fun. And remember: only you can prevent wildfires." Background is a cartoon forest.](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-08/smokey-bear-reading-challenge-socials3.png?itok=s8aKgnaa)
Get ready to learn all about the environment and how you can do your part with Smokey Bear’s Reading Challenge. Running from August 10th to November 30th, the challenge is available to all ages and accessible on your Beanstack account.
How Does It Work?
Once you’ve registered on Beanstack, stop by the library to pick up your Smokey Bear sticker and check out some library books. In order to complete the challenge, you need to read three books and complete six activities which are listed in the Beanstack app. There are 8 activities available, and each can be completed through different tasks including writing a song about campfire safety, planting native flowers, drawing your state bird or flower, and most importantly, taking the Smokey Bear Pledge.
After finishing your books and activities, you’ll earn a Smokey Bear information card and be automatically entered into the prize drawing. Prizes include a Smokey Bear stuffed animal, a 100-piece puzzle, stickers, decals, a Harvester Jeep model car, a Smokey Bear game, and more! Make sure to complete the challenge before November 30th because prizes will be drawn on December 1st.
Need Some Inspiration?
Many of the activities in the challenge focus on outdoor adventures, and the library is here to help with that! Check out our Nature Backpacks, kits full of everything you’ll need for exploring nature or just your backyard. In addition, the library has Park Passes available to be checked out that give free entry to any Virginia State Park.
Want some books about the environment? Our curated hashtags are the perfect tool! Search the catalog or click the links to browse books perfect for the challenge: #adventuresaroundcampfire, #elemadventuresintheoutdoors, #celebratetheearth, #connectwithnature, and #smokeybear.
Good luck with the Smokey Bear challenge, and don’t forget to have fun!