LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lake County Library's Winter Reading Challenge has begun.

The library is hosting the Winter Reading Challenge as a fun way for residents to challenge themselves to read more in the New Year. Reading has a host of benefits that can have a positive impact on life.

The library has programs for pre-K, kids, teens, and adults. Children who can't quite read on their own can still sign up and parents can record the books that they read together.

Residents can register for the challenge on the Library's website. Registration is open at any time until the end of the challenge on March 18. Anyone who wants to sign up can visit the library website at http://library.lakecountyca.gov and click “Winter Reading Challenge” under Events.

Residents can also register by visiting their local branch.

Once registered, residents can start reading library books to get points by logging their reading, either online or by visiting the library.

Residents can read eBooks, print books, audiobooks, comics, or magazines — all reading counts for the challenge as long as it comes from the library.

Participants complete the challenge by earning 1,000 points. Those who finish the challenge get to pick out a brand new book and be the very first person to check it out. This book will then become part of the library collection with their name inside commemorating their reading achievement.

These books are provided by the Friends of the Lake County Library, a community non-profit membership organization.

Reading is such an important way to build literacy skills. More than just the ability to read and write — a high level of literacy helps people understand complex ideas and communicate effectively with the world around them. Making reading a habit has a host of benefits such as combating stress, building empathy, and keeping the mind sharp throughout life.

Visit the Lake County Library Website at http://library.lakecountyca.gov.