Starting November 20, young readers are invited to play Funopoly at the Southlake Public Library where they can complete various reading challenges to earn tickets for prizes. Sponsored by the Library Foundation of Southlake (LFOS), readers will receive a colorful game board encouraging them to read books in various genres, such as a book about science and nature, trains, a magical place, or pets.

Similar to the summer reading program, this program is a fun way to keep students engaged during the long winter nights. The program is for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. They can register and pick up their game board by visiting the Southlake Public Library anytime through the program period of November 20 – January 8.

“This is a new initiative by the LFOS, and we couldn’t be more excited to help encourage reading during the long winter nights,” said President Lori Burr, a long-time Southlake resident and avid library user. “The beauty of our Funopoly reading game is that it gives kids a lot of choices about the types of books they read. Ideally, it will encourage readers to choose something that might be outside their normal habits. A child who mostly reads books about animals may stretch themselves to read a biography instead just to earn a ticket. We would love to see readers exploring new genres and types of books.”

Each book read will earn a ticket; reading all the books of one color will earn a golden ticket for a larger prize. Children can put those tickets into a drawing for various prizes, such as a gift card to Toy Maven, a free 1956 Pizza, books from Talking Animals bookstore, or a Bose portable speaker.

Founded in 2022, the LFOS sees its role as fundamental in expanding the library’s current capability. The efforts of the LFOS are guided by an extensive library survey conducted in 2021, feedback generated through community discussions, and the expert guidance of the dedicated library staff.

Donations to the LFOS are tax deductible. Individuals who donate $500 or more will receive a yard sign in recognition of being a Champion of the Library Foundation of Southlake. Those donating more than $1,000 will receive a yard sign and a tote bag.

For this effort, LFOS would also be delighted for any in-kind contributions to hand out as prizes, such as toys, electronics, or gift cards. If you’re interested, e-mail us at [email protected]. To donate, visit https://libraryfs.org/donate/. Visit www.libraryfs.org for more information on LFOS (LFOS is a non-profit 501c3, Texas EIN #87-4737254).

LFOS is also actively looking for individuals to get involved with its efforts. To participate, submit a volunteer leadership interest form. Together, we can help start the next chapter of the Southlake Public Library.