04/15/2026
The Mason County M. Beven Eckert Memorial Library, in partnership with the Texas Center for the Book and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC), invites Texans of all ages to participate in the statewide Texas America250 Reading Challenge, which launched Jan. 1 and continues through the end of the year.
From Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2026, all Texans are invited to log 2,500 minutes (41.6 hours) of reading, state parks visits and/or service activity as part of the national America250 America Gives initiative, in honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary.
Upon completion of the Reading Challenge, participants are eligible to receive a special certificate signed by Governor Greg Abbott. The Texas America250 Reading Challenge is self-reported. Participants can track their time using the “Mosey Along the Reading Trail” Log, available at the library, or using their own reading log or other method—then report completion to their local librarian to receive an official certificate.
You can log your time:
• Reading books and/or listening to audiobooks. The Texas Center for the Book especially encourages reading about Texas and American history, as well as Texas and American nature, wildlife and space exploration topics.
• Attending library storytimes or other library events.
• Volunteering in their local communities.
• Visiting a Texas State Park.
Learn more about TSLAC and the Texas Center for the Book’s Texas America250 programming at www.tsl.texas.gov/america250. Explore statewide events and initiatives at www.texasamerica250.com.
This project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.
