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Celebrate 30 years of Pokémon with DC Public Library’s citywide Pokémon Pokédex Passport challenge—a fun, family‑friendly adventure happening Oct. 15 - Nov. 15!
Over the past three decades, Pokémon has become one of the world’s most popular media franchises, spanning trading cards, TV shows, movies, video games, graphic novels, and more. Its popularity continues to grow, and we see that excitement reflected right here in the District.
This fall, we’re inviting children and teens—and Pokémon‑loving families of all ages—to explore the city, collect badges, discover new library locations, check out great books, and celebrate 30 years of adventure with the DC Public Library community. Gotta Read 'Em All!
Join the Pokémon Passport Adventure!
In classic Pokémon games, trainers travel across eight regions to earn badges from gym leaders. The library is bringing that adventure to real life!
- Visit one DC Public Library location in each of DC’s eight wards anytime between Oct. 15 - Nov. 15, 2026.
- Pick up your Pokédex Passport at the first location and at each location, pick up a custom ward-themed badge. (See a list of libraries by ward at the bottom of this page)
- Once you’ve collected all eight badges, snap a photo of your completed Pokédex Passport .
- Upload it using the QR code on the Pokédex Passport or by clicking the button below to enter our Pokémon Prize Raffle, drawn in Nov. 2026.
Pokédex Passport Prizes
Prizes
Two winners will receive a $25 digital gift card to the Pokémon Center courtesy of the DC Public Library Foundation.
Grand Prize
One winner will receive the grand prize of a four-pack of tickets to AwesomeCon 2027!
Pokémon Party | Friday, Oct. 16, 3:30 p.m.
Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Come to the Pokémon Party at the MLK Library! Search for Pokémon hiding in the Children's Room during a scavenger hunt, heal your tired Pokémon (stuffed toy) at the Pokémon Healing Station, grab a Pokémon coloring book (while supplies last), test your Pokémon knowledge with trivia, get a sticker for your Pokémon Passport, watch a Pokémon movie, pick your starter Pokémon, and meet Pikachu!
DC Public Library Locations by Ward
Ward 1 Libraries
Ward 2 Libraries
Shaw/Watha T. Daniel Library is closed for renovation.
Ward 3 Libraries
Ward 4 Libraries
Ward 5 Libraries
Ward 6 Libraries
Southeast Library reopens Thursday, Sept. 10.