Reading Challenge

There’s something satisfying about a reading goal. One book leads to another, and before long, you’ve journeyed through different worlds without leaving your favourite chair.

The ORL Reading Challenge is built around that idea. Each year, a curated list of 25 standout titles brings together staff favourites and memorable reads across genres, offering a mix of stories to explore at your own pace. You can follow the list in order or move between titles as your interests shift. The goal is simple: read what draws you in and see where it leads.

How it works

The challenge unfolds over four reading lists, each featuring 25 books.

Complete one Reading Challenge Tracker, or 25 books, to earn a small reward. Each completed list adds a section of books to a 3D-printed miniature bookshelf, gradually filling your display. Complete all four trackers, reaching 100 books, and you’ll receive a booklover’s mini trophy to mark the achievement.

You can track your progress online with Beanstack or use a printed tracker available at your local branch. However you choose to take part, the challenge is designed to encourage discovery, spark curiosity, and connect you with memorable stories.

Active Reading Lists

Round 2: 2026 – 2029
Round 1: 2022 – 2025

Please note

In our Part 1 challenge, if you read in alternative formats (i.e., DAISY, audio, etc.), please check out Ivan Coyote’s Tomboy Survival Guide instead of Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe (and mark Gender Queer as read).  Gender Queer is now available as an alternative format in CELA’s library.

Get your reward

Once you’ve completed a Reading Challenge Tracker, connect with your local branch to receive your reward.

Rewards can be collected at any branch and are available while supplies last. As they are 3D printed in ORL Makerspaces, some items may need to be delivered to your branch before pickup.

Track your reading with Beanstack

You can track your Reading Challenge progress online with Beanstack or through the app.

View Tutorial

Download the Beanstack Tracker App

The Beanstack app is available for free from your device’s app store:

• iPads and iPhones running iOS 14.1 or newer (App Store)
• Android tablets and smartphones running Android 4.1 or newer (Google Play)