Garfield County Libraries recently completed its Summer Reading Challenge, in which residents logged a total of over 1.5 million minutes of reading, according to a library press release.

Most libraries in the United States host such events during the summer, giving children, teens and adults the opportunity to fill the summer with books and activities.

This summer’s goal was to read 1 million minutes as a community. This goal was exceeded, ending with a total of 1,578,825 minutes read.

Because the Summer Reading Challenge was completed during the summer, it offered the opportunity to participate in programs and events such as yoga, storytelling, magic shows, music, dance, and foam parties. Participants could also win prizes.

Prizes included stickers, Frisbees, collapsible water bottles, binoculars, book money and more. Every 250 minutes of reading meant a level up and each level opened up further opportunities to win.

After 1,000 minutes of reading, readers had completed the reading challenge and could qualify for one of the main prizes in each age group (children, teenagers and adults).

The grand prize winners received a basket full of adventure items and two tickets to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

The Garfield County Public Library District uses programs like the Summer Reading Program to help children stay engaged in reading throughout the summer, preventing “summer slump,” in which children fall behind in learning when they are out of school.

Garfield County Libraries would like to thank all participants, staff and presenters for another successful Summer Reading Challenge.

The Winter Reading Challenge for adults takes place in January.