Books, audiobooks and other narrative-based materials are eligible for use in the Read-a-thon. Dixon Library offers a wide selection of books and audiobooks to support anyone’s reading journey.

DIXON, CA (MPG) - January marks the beginning of Solano Reads 2025 for the Dixon Library.

The event, an annual yearlong reading challenge, is open to all ages. Registration began Jan. 1 and participants will complete challenges by engaging with books, audiobooks or other narrative-based materials, and tracking their progress.

According to Randi Johnson, circulation lead at Dixon Library, the event is quite popular.

“For last year’s, throughout the county, we had a little under 2,000 show up,” Johnson said. “In Dixon, we had a little over 700.”

Registration for the event is available either in person or online; both offer the same experience. For digital participants, registration is available on the library’s website at solanolibrary.com; from there, they can efficiently track and record their progress. 

Dixon Library at 230 N. First St. is holding its annual Solano Reads Read-a-thon. Participants can register either virtually or in-person.

In-person participants will sign up at the library, receiving a special game board that resembles a long bending road. The game board is designed with a series of mile markers, each with a unique reading challenge, to inspire and guide every marathoner’s reading journey. With a total of 12 reading prompts overall, readers will be given options such as funny or sci-fi, nonfiction or historical fiction and thriller or romance.

“For a thriller, I would recommend anything by Riley Sager. For romance, anything by Emily Henry,” Johnson said.

Solano Libraries began the Read-a-thon to encourage citizens to read more. According to the National Literacy Institute, as of 2024, 21% of adults in the United States are illiterate. Of the 79% of literate adults nationwide, 54% have literacy below a sixth-grade level.

“We are facing a nationwide literacy crisis,” Johnson said. “Most adults read around two books a year; by participating in our marathon, we are hoping they will read at least 12 books. Reading is good for your brain and gets you away from a screen; the more adults read, the more our kids will read, allowing us to face illiteracy head-on.”

Books, audiobooks and other narrative-based materials are eligible for use in the Read-a-thon. Dixon Library offers a wide selection of books and audiobooks to support anyone’s reading journey.

Defeating illiteracy is not the only prize this marathon has to offer. Once all twelve-mile markers have been completed and accounted for, readers can visit the library to claim their exclusive Solano Reads medal as a token of their achievement. Although more attuned to teens and adults, the Solano Reads Read-a-thon is sure to reignite literary interest throughout the county.

“If it has been a while, the library is always welcoming; we would love to get you started on your reading journey this year,” Johnson said.

The Dixon Library is at 230 N. First St.