Young readers can win prizes from Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi
Hawai‘i’s public libraries are teaming up with Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream to celebrate the 2026 Winter Olympics with a special Read for the Gold Reading Challenge for students in grades K-12.
From February 6-22, participants are encouraged to track their reading time and earn chances to win special prizes related to the Olympic traits of dedication, perseverance, and achievement.
“This challenge is designed to keep students engaged in reading while connecting with the excitement and inspiration of the Olympic Games,” said State Librarian Stacey A. Aldrich.
Every 50 minutes participants read and log will earn an entry for a chance to win one of the following:
· A limited edition READ poster autographed by Kristi Yamaguchi
· A special edition Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll
· An exclusive virtual meet and greet with Kristi Yamaguchi
“For over a decade, I’ve been supporting Hawaiʻi families in their early literacy journey and am passionate about expanding their access to books,” said Olympic figure skating champion Kristi Yamaguchi of Always Dream. “This statewide challenge with the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System is a fun and meaningful way to encourage young readers across the islands to build confidence, develop a love of reading, and set themselves up for success in the classroom and beyond.”
Readers can also earn collectible bronze, silver, and gold stickers as they reach reading milestones:
· 50 minutes – Bronze
· 250 minutes – Silver
· 350 minutes – Gold
Stickers can be picked up at students’ local public libraries.
Students can sign up now at librarieshawaii.beanstack.org or by downloading the Beanstack Tracker App. Full details are available at librarieshawaii.org/winter-reading.
About the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System (HSPLS):
The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System is the only statewide public library system in the United States, serving six islands with 51 branches. HSPLS inspires curiosity and creates opportunities for all to read, learn, and connect. Rooted in the ʻohana spirit, the library system embodies the aloha, cultural richness, and environmental beauty of Hawaiʻi. Through its books, digital collections, community programming, and welcoming spaces, HSPLS nourishes minds, strengthens communities, and enriches generations. Learn more at librarieshawaii.org.
About Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream:
Founded by Olympic Gold Medalist, New York Times bestselling children’s author, philanthropist and mom, Kristi Yamaguchi, the mission of Always Dream is to ensure children have access to high-quality books in the home environment and extensive family engagement support. At Always Dream, we believe that literacy is the foundation for pursuing dreams. We know that building a love of reading is a proven strategy for student success, and our Always Reading program is here to provide family members and caring adults with the tools and resources needed to do just that.
