Love books? Get reading with libraries' Winter Reads Twin Cities program

When darkness falls at 5 p.m. and the evening is long and quiet, you can turn on the TV and watch another rerun of "The Big Bang Theory" (but tell the truth — you've seen them all, haven't you?).

Or you can pick up a book.

And if you need incentive, here's some from your local library: the Winter Reads Twin Cities program, which runs from now through February. The metrowide program is designed to help readers connect with one another and share recommendations and reviews, at the library and on the Internet, using the hashtag #WinterReadsTwinCities.

There are lots of ways to take part:

1. Write and submit Winter Reads book reviews at your local library. (And maybe win a prize!)

2. Share what you're reading online. Snap a selfie and hashtag it with #ireadthis on social media.

3. Add star ratings and reviews on your library's website.

5. Check out a book club kit.

6. Attend an author talk.

7. Collect all four Winter Reads bookmarks from your library.

There will be a public discussion on Facebook from 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 14, with library staff discussing books and giving recommendations. (Go to: facebook.com/events/1485209198448075/)