The Bienville Parish Library is thrilled to reveal the winners of the 2026 Adult Reading Program. This year’s theme, The Story Zone: So Many Books, So Little Time to Read, was a playful nod to Rod Serling’s classic television series, The Twilight Zone.

There was outstanding participation by patrons across all branches. This program not only celebrates the top readers, but also sets the stage for the Children’s Summer Reading Program launching on June 3.

A Standing Ovation for the Winners

From February through April, adult participants immersed themselves in books, e-books, and audiobooks, tracking their journeys at their local branches. BPL is proud to announce the top three readers from each branch, along with ther Parishwide Champion, the individual who logged the most books in the entire Bienville Parish Library System.

Parishwide Champion

Debbie Carlisle – 93 books

Ms. Carlisle also came in as the 1st prize winner at the Main Library in Arcadia. Her achievement will be featured in her home library and across BPL’s social media platforms.

Branch Winners

Arcadia Branch

1st Place: Debbie Carlisle (93 books) *
2nd Place: Janet Blackwell (81 books)
3rd Place: Jackie Blank (52 books)

Ringgold Branch

1st Place: Juanita Nettles (90 books)
2nd Place: Robert McElroy (83 books)
3rd Place: Vickie Petty (50 books)

Saline Branch

1st Place: Sylvia Moore (71 books)
2nd Place: Theresa Blewer (49 books)
3rd Place: Chancy Ponder (21 books)

Castor Branch

1st Place: Patsy Quick (28 books)
2nd Place: Betty Potts (26 books)
3rd Place: Judy McCarthy (14 books)

Gibsland Branch

1st Place: Rosetta Ryder (45 books)
2nd Place: Marsha Andrews (9 books)
3rd Place: Markeona Jones (7 books)

Honorable Mentions

BPL’s amazing staff is the heart of its mission. BPL is proud of their personal dedication to reading and promoting the library’s online resources.

Peggy Marquez – 29 books (Saline Branch)
Shelby Coates – 25 books (Castor Branch)
Cathey Jackson – 23 books (Main Library, Arcadia)
Melissa Matthews – 23 books (Saline Branch)
Clara Powell – 23 books (Ringgold Branch)
Susie Graham – 20 books (Main Library, Arcadia)
Robin Word – 16 books (Castor Branch)

What’s Next?

A huge congratulations to all the winners and participants. Their love of reading made this year’s program a huge success. Keep turning those pages and get ready for an exciting 2026 Summer Reading Program.

For details on upcoming events, visit the nearest Bienville Parish Library and follow them on social media.