Long Beach Public Library Launches KOALA Quest: 500 Books Before Middle School Reading Challenge

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) has announced the launch of KOALA Quest: 500 Books Before Middle School, a dynamic reading challenge designed to prepare children ages 6-12 for their middle school journey. Registration begins Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, and this ongoing challenge will continue until each participant completes the goal of reading 500 books.

"KOALA Quest supports our commitment to nurturing the intellectual growth of our young residents," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "By making reading an enjoyable and rewarding experience, we are laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success."

KOALA Quest will be available at no cost through the Library's Beanstack app, providing participants with the tools to complete activities, access recommended book lists and track their progress to earn prizes. This engaging reading challenge focuses on fostering a love for reading by allowing children to explore books of their choosing. More than just a fun activity, reading for pleasure significantly enhances vocabulary and comprehension skills, essential for academic success.

"We are excited to offer KOALA Quest to elementary-age children as a way of engaging them outside the classroom," said Cathy De Leon, Library Services Director. "Our libraries are more than just places to borrow books - they are vibrant community hubs where learning and discovery happen every day."

KOALA Quest also encourages participants to develop their social skills by visiting their local LBPL branch and discussing their reading interests with librarians. Participants can earn badges not only by reading but also by attending specific Library activities. Those who reach the 500-book milestone will be celebrated with a congratulatory pizza social.

For more information about registration for KOALA Quest: 500 Books Before Middle School or about Long Beach Public Library, including a vast array of programs, services, events, and activities, visit lbpl.org or call 562.570.7500.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Public Library, visit lbpl.organd on social at: Facebook, X and Instagram.

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