To stay in or go out?
by Amanda Molumby
It’s that time of year when going out often means bracing for a cold, stinging wind in your face, fingers going numb, noses running, lips becoming chapped. Well, I hope to have something for both those people that enjoy frolicking in the snow outside, and those who like to stay cozy and warm inside.
If you want to stay in with a book in your hands or a movie to watch, try out one of these titles this winter season:
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
Fire Exit by Morgan Talty
Laid-back Camp by Afro
The Holdovers directed by Alexander Payne
If you stream/download the item with Libby or Hoopla, you don’t even have to set foot outside to enjoy these cold-weather stories! Alternatively, place it on hold for yourself and come pick it up at the Library when it’s available, quick and easy.
For the person that loves winter time outdoors and doesn’t mind a brisk trip outside, try out some of these fun happenings when you visit Ames Public Library:
Our Holiday Book Sale is happening right now! Drop by the Literary Grounds Bookstore in the Library's lobby for $1 off items with a red sticker till January 2nd. The sale has something for everyone, and gift certificates are available too!
Check out our StoryWalk™ through January 2. Start at Ames Public Library and find the pages of Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper and illustrated by Kenard Pak in windows of downtown businesses. It’s a fun literary scavenger hunt!
Finally, make sure to join the Winter Reading Challenge! Mark off any day that you read between December 1 and January 31—read 30 days in this time span and you’ll earn a free prize. Any age can join in. Pick up a challenge tracker at the Library or Bookmobile or sign up online at amespubliclibrary.beanstack.org. You can find more details about this challenge on our website, at www.AmesPL.org/event/WinterReading2025. When you’re finished, come collect your prize— a lovely mug and some hot cocoa to enjoy.
Whether you’re a stay in or a go out kind of person, the Library has something for everyone. We hope you have some time this winter season to check out what we have to offer!
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.