Happy New Year! Welcome to January, and the very first month of the Read with MLC 2026 Reading Challenge! This is our third year to offer a reading challenge, and this time, the Mississippi Library Commission is focusing on the America 250 project, a year-long celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Every single reading prompt this year focuses on a point in America’s history. (You can see the entire calendar of prompts at the bottom of this post.) January’s goal is to read a book with a precious metal or gem in the title. What does that have to do with American history? Check that out, as well as some suggestions on meeting this month’s challenge, below!

On January 24, 1848, gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill in California. Workers were busy forming the millrace for Sutter’s mill when his partner, James Marshall, went out to inspect their progress. He reported, “My eye was caught by something shining in the bottom of the ditch. . .  I reached my hand down and picked it up; it made my heart thump, for I was certain it was gold. . . Then I saw another.” While the discovery ended up ruining Sutter financially, it made many people a decent profit. It was especially lucrative for the merchants who set up shop to cater to the gold miners’ needs.

Gold isn’t the only precious item found in the United States. According to the US Geological Survey, America produces a veritable wealth of precious gems, too; agate, beryl, freshwater pearl, garnet, jade, jasper, mother-of-pearl, opal, peridot, quartz, sapphire, tourmaline, and turquoise can all be found within our borders.

To find a book with a precious metal or gem in the title, the easiest place to start is your public library’s catalog. Head to MLC’s catalog here, and type gold, silver, pearl or jade in the search bar. The sky’s the limit when it comes to finding something good to read. If the catalog didn’t fill your needs, or you just don’t feel like searching yourself, be sure to check out MLC’s BookMatch service. It’s an easy way to discover new books custom chosen just for you. Fill out our super short form to give us an idea of your likes and dislikes; we’ll send you a short list of suggested titles selected with your specific tastes in mind. Take a little time between your New Year’s resolutions to settle down with a good book. Until next time, happy reading!