Library adopts Beanstack app

The Lincoln County Library is going digital with a new program for readers.

Alyssa Ramirez, library director, announced the online service Beanstack will be available through the county library system starting in February. Beanstack provides users with recommended reading lists and tools to track reading goals. By participating in challenges offered through the site, readers can also earn badges and prizes.

Ramirez said in a press release that the library will launch Beanstack with four challenges. The 2021 Reading Challenge, pushes users to log 10,000 reading minutes throughout the year. The adult challenge titled 10 to Try, encourages readers to discover 10 books in 10 different genres. A Mindfulness Challenge prompts users to try activities meant to reduce stress and anxiety.

As part of the library’s partnership with the local Zero to Five Cooperative, families will also be able to participate in the 1,000 Books Kindergarten. The program encourages parents and guardians to read 1,000 books to their children before sending them to kindergarten.

Users of the library’s platform will be able to participate in as many challenges as they like. To sign up for the program, readers can pick up a paper reading log at a county branch, register online or join via the Beanstack app. For more information, users can contact the library at (406) 293-2778 or email ddeans@lincolncountylibraries.com.