10 to Try Annual Reading Challenge
King County Library System, Wash.
Innovation Synopsis
10 to Try is an adult-focused themed reading challenge designed to encourage patrons to engage with the collection and the library throughout the year. Participants had the calendar year to read a book in each of 10 categories; the library provided digital and in-person recommendations for each theme.
Challenge/Opportunity
With 10 to Try, we hoped to engage patrons who frequently access the collections but don't interact? ?with the library in other ways, either ?by attending programs or interacting with the library's staff, website or catalog beyond placing holds and managing checked out materials. Additionally,? the program was designed to support the Library's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion by encouraging readers to actively seek out works by diverse authors on diverse topics?.
Key Elements of Innovation
- Ten challenge categories change annually. They encourage reading diversely by crossing formats, topics, genres and author identities. Examples include: recommended by KCLS staff, by a Native American author, a work in translation, a graphic novel and a banned book
- Option for digital or paper participation
- Branded print and digital campaign (bookmarks, signage, website/social media, buttons)
- Frequently updated digital content: blog and social media posts, booklists, videos
- Pre-launch staff awareness campaign
Achieved Outcomes
10 to Try successfully created an avenue for readers to connect more deeply with the library. Participants reported exploring the library’s website, learning about new resources, rediscovering a love of reading and "feeling like part of a giant reading club." Sixty-two percent reported being more likely to turn to the library for book recommendations; 55 percent reported feeling more connected to the library. Ninety-four percent said they plan to participate if the library offered the challenge again.
