Mystery authors headline library’s winter reading program

The Medina County District Library will launch its annual Winter Reading for Adults program Jan. 5 and continue it through March 15 at all MCDL locations.

Participants can read books in any format and enter completed titles for chances to win Book Lovers Bundles at each location or a grand prize bundle that includes a Kindle Fire, case, page turner and stylus. Readers can also complete challenges to earn free book coupons for Friends of the Library book sales and receive custom reading-inspired stickers just for participating.

The Winter Reading Game can be played online or in person at library locations. Entry bookmarks are available at all branches, and additional information is available at mcdl.info/ReadingGame. The program is sponsored by the Friends of MCDL.

As part of the winter reading season, MCDL will host visiting authors during its Cozy Mystery Series in February at the Medina Library. The series features fireside-style discussions with award-winning mystery writers. 

Amanda Flower will appear Wednesday, Feb. 4, at 6:30 p.m., with a blizzard date scheduled for Feb. 11. Flower, a bestselling and Agatha Award-winning author of more than 50 mystery novels and a former librarian, will discuss her book Natural Barn Killer.

Anastasia Hastings, the pen name of Connie Laux, will visit Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 6:30 p.m., with a blizzard date of March 4. Hastings is a bestselling author of cozy and historical mysteries writing under multiple pseudonyms and lives in nearby Brecksville. She will discuss Of Manners and Murder.

Registration for both events is available at mcdl.info/Readers, where attendees can also reserve copies of the featured books. A book sale and signing will follow each discussion.

MCDL also reminds patrons that free eMedia is available 24/7 through its Hoopla, Libby and Kanopy apps, even during winter weather. Medina County residents may apply for a digital library card for immediate access to online content. Out-of-county applicants may also apply, with a turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours. Those with a physical library card already have access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies, magazines and more at mcdl.info/eMedia.