Marshall Public Library (MPL) is once again celebrating the holiday season with its third annual Jolabokaflod event, and this year’s giveaway is extra special. Beginning Monday, November 24, library cardholders can stop by to pick up a free hardback keepsake copy of The Polar Express, just in time for the book’s 40th anniversary.
Thanks to funding from the Friends of Marshall Public Library, the library has purchased 200 copies of The Polar Express to share with the community. Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition that began during World War II, translates to “Christmas book flood” and celebrates the joy of exchanging books and spending quiet evenings reading at home.
“2025 marks the 40th anniversary of The Polar Express’s publication, so it was the perfect fit for Jolabokaflod this year,” said Amy Azzouzat, Public Services Supervisor. “Many adults in our community grew up reading it at Christmas, so it really has become a classic holiday story for multiple generations.”
Books will be available while supplies last, with a limit of one copy per household. A valid MPL card is required to receive a book. In addition to the physical copies, an e-book version with optional read-along audio will also be available to cardholders through Libby, the library’s e-book service.
For more information about Jolabokaflod or the giveaway, please contact Amy Azzouzat at 208-232-1263 ext. 106.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho. Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.