2026 Reading Challenge
Read 12 Books in 12 Months!
The Northeastern University Library is proud to present the third annual Reading Challenge!
Quick links
The challenge
Step 1: Read a Book
Northeastern Library staff have chosen a theme for each month of 2026. To participate in the challenge, read at least one book each month that fits the theme. E-books and audiobooks count, too! Themes for 2026:
- January: A book about exploration, travel, or a journey
- February: A book under 200 pages
- March: A book written in letters or diary entries
- April: A book recommended by a librarian
- May: A book with a non-human protagonist
- June: A book about activism
- July: A book about American history
- August: A book by an author local to your Northeastern campus
- September: A book set on a college campus
- October: A book of investigative journalism
- November: A book about food
- December: A book published in 2026
Not sure what to read?
Northeastern librarians have put together a handy suggested reading list of e-books and audiobooks.
If you’re on the Boston campus, you can also stop by our monthly tabling events in the library lobby to check out a selection of on-theme print books—and pick up some Reading Challenge swag!
All Northeastern students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in the challenge, even if you’re not based at the Boston campus. (There are prizes for global campus readers, too!)
Step 2: Tell Us About It
Once you’ve read your book, just fill out a quick questionnaire about your reading. Library staff will draw one name each month to win a prize!
The Prizes
Prizes will vary by month, but include:
- A stocked finals week study room for Boston campus students
- Finals week care packages for students at global campuses
- Northeastern Library swag
All Northeastern students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in the challenge, even if you’re not based at the Boston campus.
Links & Contact Information
For questions about the challenge, contact Brooke Williams: [email protected].