Four photos of scenes with library interiors and exteriors.

January 2026

Celebrating The Year of the Book

We've crowned 2026 the "Year of the Book" because, let's face it, we love books! It is also the perfect celebration to help patrons tackle New Year's resolutions. Your libraries are here to support you with resources and community connections to achieve your goals and to honor books throughout the year!

Tackle these resolutions with your library card!

Illustration of a person with glasses sitting on the ground reading a book.

Libraries have everything you need to read more this year! Books galore in a variety of formats, including ebooks and audiobooks. Don't know where to start? Expert librarians are ready to help you find something you'll love, no matter the genre!

Get started

Check out these fun winter and year-round reading programs.
Join a library book club or listen to an author talk. Visit each library's website to learn about their book clubs and events.
Host your own group by borrowing a Book Club Kit. Each kit contains books, information about the author, and discussion questions.

Illustration of a piggy bank with monies going into it.

Save money

Who doesn't want to save money? Your library is one of the few places where you can go without the expectation to buy something while you're there. Reduce your spending by borrowing items instead of buying. Attend a program with your family or friends for free, or simply hang out in cozy spaces.

Get started

Check out books, try unique items from the Library of Things, or use equipment in a library makerspace!
Reduce your subscription services. Borrow Rokus, DVDs, Blu-Rays, and video games for Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or PlayStation.
Find something to do! Visit local attractions for free with Explore Passes or attend library programs. Review the Systemwide Event Calendar.

Illustration of a snowman wearing a scarf.

Decrease Screen Time

Digital detox has emerged as a top New Year’s resolution this year. Many people are aiming for intentional disconnection from screens to help reclaim focus and well-being. Your library can help!

Get started

Set yourself up with something to do away from your devices. Check out outdoor games, craft kits, and jigsaw puzzles.
Borrow screen-free tools like Tonieboxes, Playaways and Whazoodles.
Improve your focus and memory with Stay Sharp Kits.

Around the Libraries

Explore Wellness: Nature, Yoga, and Nutrition

Birdwell: Birding, Wellness, and You

New Berlin Public Library

Learn with us and Wild Birds Unlimited expert birder, Tom Moser, as he shares how watching, listening and connecting with birds can boost your well-being. Registration is required.

Monday, January 12
10:00 - 11:00 am
Birdwell event details and registration

Woman with eyes closed holding a yoga pose.

Chair Yoga

Jefferson Public Library

Gather in the Library Meeting Room to experience a gentle form of yoga that is practiced sitting on a chair for support. Please wear comfortable clothing.

Tuesday, January 13
Tuesday, January 20
10:00 - 11:00 am
Chair Yoga event details

Laughter Yoga

Oconomowoc Public Library

Come learn a unique laughing exercise routine which combines unconditional laughter with breathing exercises. It will teach you to laugh anywhere anytime to gain the health benefits of laughing. Registration is required.

Wednesday, January 14
6:00 - 7:00 pm

Laughter Yoga event details and registration

Cat Yoga

Karl Junginger Memorial Library (Waterloo)

Find your purr-fect pose during a relaxing yoga session with friendly feline guests! Stretch, breathe, and enjoy some kitty cuddles. The library will be collecting supply donations for Susie Q's Rescue. Registration is required.

Thursday, January 22
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Cat Yoga event detail and registration

An open notebook that says: new year, goal, plan, action.

Health Resolutions That Actually Work

Hartland Public Library

Join Dr. Moira Martin to talk about health resolutions for the New Year! Learn to turn big resolutions into realistic, lasting habits with practical tips, motivation, and a clear plan to make 2026 your healthiest year yet! Registration is required.

Saturday, January 24
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Health Resolutions event details and registration

A man chopping vegetables on a cutting board in a kitchen.

Nutrition Workshop: Budget-Friendly Meals

Waukesha Public Library

Join Sydney Roberts, a Registered Dietitian from the YMCA, to learn how simple planning, smart shopping, and a little creativity can turn a tight grocery budget into a week of delicious, nutritious meals. Leave with real-life tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your own budget-friendly meals. Registration is required.

Monday, January 26

6:00 - 7:00 pm
Nutrition Workshop event details and registration

Memory Cafés

Winter Memory Cafés

Jan. 9: Therapy Dog • Hartland Public Library
Jan. 12: Winter Olympics • Dwight Foster Public Library (Fort Atkinson)
Jan. 19: Let it Snow • Brookfield Public Library
Jan. 28: Laughing in the New Year • Waukesha Public Library
Feb. 6: Watercolor Cards • Town Hall Library (North Lake)
Feb. 9: Chair Yoga • Jefferson Senior Center
*Sponsored by Jefferson Public Library