BOZEMAN –Bozeman Public Library is encouraging readers 12 years old and up to join in a reading challenge as the new year kicks off. The Ultimate Book Nerd (UBN) Challenge will start Jan. 2 and asks participants to read one book in each of the 50 categories – that’s 50 books in 52 weeks. Winners will receive a prize: a high-quality book bag with the words, “Ultimate Book Nerd.” 

“If you’ve been told your nose is always buried in a book, or your headphones are always tuned into an audiobook, you might be the perfect fit to take on this challenge,” says Becky Kasten, Assistant Library Director at Bozeman Public Library.

“We launched this program to encourage people to challenge themselves to a year of reading and learning, and we’re excited to see who takes us up on it.”

The categories will be listed in a log sheet and vary widely. Readers can interpret categories differently, and the main requirement is that they be 50 different books.

While participants are going through the challenge, the Library will also host quarterly “Meetings of the Nerds” on the second Thursday of March, June, September, and December 2026. These meetings will be a chance to talk with fellow participants about books they have been reading and categories they have yet to finish.

This tough and stimulating program originated in Boise Public Library and is the first time Bozeman is attempting the challenge.

Those seeking more information on this program can stop by the Library or call 406-582-2400.