Haunted Henrico Spooky Reading Challenge

If you thought reading challenges were just for the summer, then think again. Fall is quickly approaching and we’re in the mood for chilly weather and even chillier reads. What better way to welcome the new season than with a spooky reading challenge? If you’re ready to read booo-ks and set new ghouls, we’re inviting everyone (including adults!) to participate in our first ever Haunted Henrico Spooky Reading Challenge. Read on for more details.

CHALLENGE DETAILS

The Haunted Henrico Spooky Reading Challenge kicks off September 22, the first day of fall, and runs through November 3. The BINGO-style challenge includes spooky-themed reading prompts and activities. Complete any five activities in a row to earn a fun bookmark—your choice of seasonal scratch-and-sniff scents or glow-in-the-dark. Some of the challenges include:

• Take a walk while listening to a spooky audiobook or podcast.
• Watch a spooky, scary, or thrilling movie based on a book.
• Borrow a cookbook and make a seasonal treat.
• Call the Spooky Storyline (804) 501-1946 for new stories every Wednesday throughout the challenge.

Participants can access the challenge entirely online on Beanstack or by visiting a Henrico County Public Library to pick up a paper copy of the BINGO card. Or, feel free to download and print a copy of the card at home (also available in large print).

PROGRAMS

In addition to the challenge, be sure to also check out our spooky season programs. Below are just a handful of what you’ll find at the library this fall. Visit our online calendar for a full listing:

KIDS

• Bright Star Theatre
  • Monday, October 13
    • 10:30AM at Fairfield: Franken-Bully
    • 2:30PM at Libbie Mill: A Tell-Tale Tale
    • 7PM at Twin Hickory: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
  • Saturday, October 25
    • 11AM at Twin Hickory: The Wizard of Oz
    • 2PM at Libbie Mill: The Wizard of Oz

• Scary Stories for Scaredy Cats
  • Multiple dates and locations
    • We are telling some of our favorite scary stories for kids. We will start with tales that are not too spooky and will slowly progress to more scary ones. Families are welcome to leave at any time. How long will you last?

TEENS

• The Haunted Pen: Teen Horror Writing Workshops
  • Multiple dates and locations
    • Explore what fear looks like around the world in this writing workshop for teens. The program will culminate in us drafting three sentence horror stories about what scares us. Join us if you dare! Snacks provided. 

• Escape from Sleepy Hollow
  • Multiple dates and locations, registration required
    • Step into the eerie town of Sleepy Hollow in this escape room. You will have a set amount of time to solve the puzzles, uncover hidden clues, and break free...before the Headless Horseman finds you! Bring your wits and courage! The same escape room will be run several times throughout the day, including at 2:00PM, 3:00, and 4:00. Participants should only register for one time slot. This program is offered as part of the library's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and US Independence in the Commonwealth of Virginia. View additional programs in the VA250 series.

• Special FX Makeup Workshops
  • Multiple dates and locations, registration required
    • Learn how to create creepy special effects makeup techniques from a Virginia Repertory Theatre artist! Leave with your very own bone-chilling makeup design. All are welcome, although registered participants will have the opportunity to get makeup applied. 

ADULTS & TEENS

• Counted Cross Stitch for Spooky Season
  • Thursday, October 2, 6-8PM at Fairfield
    • Bats, spiders, ghosts, and skulls are the spooky themes for a small-sized project. Beginning-level cross stitchers are welcome. Instruction and supplies are included.

• Historically Speaking: Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
  • Thursday, October 30, 7-8PM at Tuckahoe
    • Washington Irving, portrayed by John Pagano, discusses his life, writing, and the inspiration for what is arguably his most famous work—The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Program held in partnership with Henrico County Recreation and Parks, History Division. This program is offered as part of the library's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and US Independence in the Commonwealth of Virginia. View additional programs in the VA250 series.