Featured Events & Programs

Fall into Reading

October 1 - 31, 2026

All APLD locations

A fun fall reading program during the month of October where children ages 0 - 11 read 5 times for 15 minutes. To redeem your reading prize, return the completed log to any of our 3 locations or Bookmobile.

How to Participate

  1. Pick up a reading log at any APLD location beginning October 1.
  2. Follow the trail and color 5 of the fall images for every 15 minutes that you read.
  3. Bring your completed log to the Children's Desk (or the Bookmobile) to receive a prize.

 APLD's Fifth Annual Young Authors 

November 1 - 30, 2026

To honor National Novel Writing Month, aspiring young writers in grades 3-8 are invited to submit original short stories to APLD’s Fifth Annual Young Authors Short Story Contest. Each story must include the theme of Bravery and will be judged by APLD staff and past winners for creativity, style, and voice. The theme is open to all interpretations- make it your own! To participate, submit your short story between November 30, 2026 to any APLD location for a chance to have your story published on APLD's website and win a prize!

Short Story Contest Guidelines

Open to individuals in:

  • School grades 3-8 
  • Living in the library's service area

Story must:

  • Include the theme of: Bravery 
  • Be under 1,500 words and may be written in English or Spanish
  • Be original, free of copyright restrictions and AI, and previously unpublished
  • Be appropriate for a wide audience and suitable for all ages
  • Be typed or clearly legible 
  • Include the title and page number on each page

Submissions must:

  • Be accompanied by an entry form
  • Be limited to one per person
  • Be submitted by November 30, 2026. No late entries will be accepted.

Submit your entry in person (non-returnable) at any APLD Children’s Desk or submit the form below. 

Entries that do not meet the above guidelines may be disqualified from judging. Winners announced Friday, December 18, 2026.