As part of the national America250 America Gives initiative, the Texas Center for the Book, headquartered at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, encourages Texans to join us in reinvigorating a national year-round culture of service in the United States through 2026 and beyond.
From January 1 to December 31, 2026, we invite Texans of all ages to log 2,500 minutes (41.6 hours) of reading, state parks visits, and/or service activity, in honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary.
Participants can log their time:
- Reading books and/or listening to audiobooks. We especially encourage 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. Find a Library!
- Volunteering in their local communities.
- Visiting a Texas State Park.
The Texas America250 Reading Challenge is self-reported. Let your school or public librarian know when you have completed the challenge, and they can print out a certificate for you.
Learn more, view the full participation guidelines, our FAQ, download graphics, and more at www.tsl.texas.gov/america250/challenge.
Page last modified: March 18, 2026