The 2026 Oswego County Battle of the Books brought together students from across the region for an exciting celebration of reading, teamwork and academic excellence. Now facilitated through CiTi Arts-in-Education in partnership with Oswego County school librarians, the long-standing literacy event continues to inspire a love of reading among students in grades three through 12.

Battle of the Books is a nationally recognized literacy program that challenges students to read a selected list of books and compete in quiz-style matches that test their knowledge of titles, authors and story details. The program not only strengthens reading comprehension, but also promotes collaboration, critical thinking and school pride.

This year’s countywide competition was held at SUNY Oswego and featured teams advancing through school- and district-level rounds before competing against top readers from across Oswego County. Students competed in four grade-level divisions, demonstrating impressive preparation, enthusiasm and teamwork throughout the event.

2026 Battle of the Books Winners by Division:

High School (Grades 9–12)
1st Place – Sandy Creek
2nd Place – Mexico
3rd Place – Phoenix

Grades 7–8
1st Place – Phoenix
2nd Place – Oswego
3rd Place – Pulaski

Grades 5–6
1st Place – Fulton
2nd Place – Mexico
3rd Place – Pulaski

Grades 3–4
1st Place – Oswego
2nd Place – Phoenix
3rd Place – Mexico

The program aligns with CiTi BOCES’ mission to support authentic, student-centered learning experiences and foster lifelong skills. For more information about Battle of the Books and other programs, visit CiTi BOCES Arts-in-Education at CiTiboces.org/ArtsInEd.

A full album of photos is available on our Facebook page.