Take Part in the Great Kindness Challenge at Salem Public Library!

The Great Kindness Challenge is an annual worldwide initiative created by Kids for Peace, a global nonprofit, with the goal of inspiring kids to create a culture of kindness throughout their communities. Great Kindness Challenge Week takes place January 26-30, 2026, but Salem Public Library is encouraging families to share acts of kindness all month long.

Kindness Bingo Challenge
During January, kids and teens can pick up a BINGO card at the Children's Corner or Teen Scene desks on Floor 2 or print a copy. Each participant who completes at least 1 BINGO (horizontal, vertical or diagonal) and reports it to the Children's Corner or Teen Scene desks will receive an entry into a drawing to win one of five $20 gift cards from One Fair World. You can complete and submit up to 5 BINGOs. Deadline to turn in a Kindness Bingo: Saturday, February 7.

Bubble of Kindness
Throughout the month of January, kids and family members can pick up a token (1 per library visit) at the Children's Desk on Floor 2 of the main library and enter it in the gumball machine to receive a kind note. Kids are also encouraged to pay it forward by writing their own kindness messages to leave for others. All supplies are provided.

Drop-In Craft - Kindness Cards 2-4 p.m. Saturday, January 3, Children's Corner
Drop in to the Children's Corner and kick off Kindness Month by creating a one-of-a-kind personalized card for someone special. Free. All materials provided.

Discovery Kids Preschool Adventures: Kindness 11-11:45 a.m. Saturday, January 10, Story Room A
Children ages 3-5 and their grown-ups are invited to share a story and related activity. This month's story and activity will center social and emotional development. Free. Signups are recommended.

Teen Create and Connect - Crafting Kindness 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 15, Teen Scene
Connect with other teen makers at this crafting drop-in! Bring your projects - whether crochet, drawing, beading, or something else! Need a project? We have fiber arts supplies and will have crafting materials available. Free. This month, craft a variety of simple items for sharing as acts of kindness to start off the new year. All middle and high school-aged youth welcome!

Creative Kids - Friendship Bracelets and Keychains 2-3:30 p.m. Friday, January 30, Story Rooms A&B
Kids in grades 3-5 are invited to create a bracelet or keychain for someone special. This activity is a mission in the Great Kindness Challenge. Participation in the Great Kindness Challenge is not required to attend. All supplies provided. Free. Signups are recommended.