Kansas 250 Reading Challenge

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through the stories that shape Kansas and our nation. In conjunction with America 250, Manhattan Public Library invites readers of all ages to take part in the Kansas 250 Reading Challenge, inspired by the Kansas 250 Bookshelf from the State Library of Kansas. This year-long reading challenge highlights books connected to Kansas history, culture, communities, and voices—showing how local stories connect to the broader American story.

November's theme is "Per Aspera." The motto of Kansas, "Ad astra per aspera," means "to the stars through difficulties" and is an outlook of meeting our challenges and rising above hardships. A reading list is available to get you started.