Hawaii Library Challenge Winners Awarded Tickets
The state library system recognized two readers for their participation in the 2026 summer initiative.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Gambling
The Hawaiʻi State Public Library System announced the winners of its 2026 Summer Reading Challenge on September 26, 2026, following the program's conclusion on July 31. Kahului resident Eden Bensadoun and Kailua-Kona resident Elliana Mowry were awarded round-trip airline tickets for their reading achievements.
Why it matters
The program successfully encouraged literacy statewide throughout the summer months. By tracking minutes read or books finished, the initiative motivated thousands of residents to engage with literature as a community.
Over 25,000 people participated in the challenge, collectively logging 8.8 million minutes of reading and finishing more than 180,000 books. Eden Bensadoun completed 16 books, while Elliana Mowry logged 808 minutes.
The players
Hawaiʻi State Public Library System
This government institution oversees public library services throughout the state of Hawaii.
Eden Bensadoun
A resident of Kahului who became the first adult winner of the statewide reading challenge grand prize.
Elliana Mowry
A resident of Kailua-Kona who was selected as a grand prize winner for her reading participation.
The details
Participants earned entries for a prize drawing by logging their reading progress throughout the summer. Eden Bensadoun made history as the first adult to ever win a Summer Reading Challenge grand prize.
Timeline
The Summer Reading Challenge started on June 1, 2026.
The program concluded on July 31, 2026.
Challenge winners were officially announced on September 26, 2026.
Culture Shift
Public library programs are increasingly moving toward gamified incentives to combat summer learning loss. This initiative follows the incentive models established by the Collaborative Summer Library Program to boost off-season literacy.
The challenge demonstrates the benefits of tracking reading progress to qualify for community rewards. Residents looking to participate in future cycles should monitor local library announcements for upcoming registration dates and prize details.
The takeaway
Engaging in structured reading challenges can provide tangible personal rewards beyond the educational benefits. Readers should maintain a log of their materials throughout the year to maximize their eligibility for future institutional incentives.
Further reading
Discover more about similar statewide promotional drawings on our Gambling section page.
