This column, featuring resources for starting off the New Year appeared in the Jan. 4, 2026, edition of the Omaha World-Herald (NE). It is also available at Omaha.com (opens in a new tab).
Turn the page on old habits with help from the Omaha Public Library
A new year often brings fresh goals, new habits and the motivation to try something different, and the Omaha Public Library is here to help every step of the way.
Whether your focus is reading more, improving your finances, managing stress or picking up a new hobby, the Omaha Public Library offers resources, programs and events to support whatever you want to work toward this year.
On the latest episode of the library's podcast “The Book Drop," listeners are encouraged to think beyond traditional New Year’s resolutions and instead focus on “activations,” or meaningful ways to bring intention and momentum into the year ahead. Tune in to “The Book Drop” for inspiration, then explore the library's upcoming events and programs designed to help you activate your goals all year long.
Each January, the library releases a new Reading Challenge that aims to expand your reading horizons. Track your reading in a booklet that is free to pick up from all branches and features each monthly challenge, like “Read a book set in another world or another time.” In addition to the prompt, several books that meet the prompt and are available in the library's collection are included.
Pick up your booklet, hear about new books to add to your to-be-read shelf and meet other readers at the Reading Challenge Kick-Off Party, opens a new window on Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Millard Branch. A book swap and various crafts and activities will also take place throughout the night.
And if you’re still looking for your next read after you’ve completed the monthly reading challenge, you can head to omahalibrary.org and request that a librarian create a customized reading list, opens a new window just for you based on previous titles you’ve enjoyed.
If you want to start a business or improve your personal finances
Has improving your finances been a resolution you’ve had for a few years now? Start the new year strong by attending the Financial Beginnings, opens a new window workshop at the Charles B. Washington Branch on Saturday at 1 p.m. Presented by Jasmine McCain, attendees will learn practical tips and strategies to help them take control of their finances.
Or maybe you could use some support in starting or growing your small business, opens a new window? The Small Business Administration will host an informative session to share available resources and answer any questions on Jan. 26 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Charles B. Washington Branch.
If you’re ready to de-stress
Calm and Centered: Practices for Stress Relief and Resilience, opens a new window is a series of events designed to help you navigate life’s challenges with more ease and balance. The program will explore simple, accessible techniques to calm the mind, relax the body and build resilience in an ever-changing world. If that sounds like it might interest you, this event will be offered on Wednesday at the Milton R. Abrahams Branch, Jan. 20 at the Saddlebrook Branch and again on Jan. 27 at the Benson Branch. Find more information on the library website.
And while Calm and Centered is aimed at adults, taking care of your mental health can benefit everybody, no matter their age. The South Omaha Library and A.V. Sorensen Branch will both offer a Kids Yoga & Mindfulness Workshop, opens a new window on Saturday and Feb. 27, respectively.
If you want to try a new hobby
Looking to create more and consume less? There are a ton of different craft-themed events, opens a new window that will make you feel like a true artist and visionary.
Check out an upcoming Cut & Create: Vision & Mood Boards, opens a new window to set your intentions for the year and bring them to life by mood boarding using images, words and various materials that reflect your inspirations for the future.
Or pick up a paintbrush at a Paint & Sip, opens a new window event (Paint & Snack, opens a new window events are available for teens!). No experience is necessary, as local artist Yulia Brynskikh will guide you step-by-step.
If being artsy isn’t quite what you had in mind, try seeing how green your thumb is with Seed Starting Indoors, opens a new window. Ten libraries are hosting events through the end of February, and attendees will learn how to choose seeds, care for seedlings and prepare young plants for the garden following a demonstration with Nebraska Extension. Registration is required for all of these, as they are expected to fill up.
You can find more event information, registration and resources at omahalibrary.org. No matter your goal, the Omaha Public Library is here for you and wishes you a happy new year!
About Omaha Public Library
Omaha Public Library (OPL) strengthens our communities by connecting people with ideas, information, and innovative services, acting as an essential catalyst, collaborator, and connector. Learn about OPL's collections, facilities, services, programs and more at omahalibrary.org.
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