1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Program
Have you heard about our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program? This early literacy program helps families prepare young children for school by encouraging regular reading from birth through the start of kindergarten. By sharing books together every day, you can support your child’s learning while creating meaningful moments that build a lifelong love of reading.
Reading aloud is one of the most effective ways to support your child’s growth and development. Long before children learn to read on their own, they are learning how books work, how stories flow, and how language sounds. Sharing stories helps children build vocabulary, listening skills, letter recognition, and comprehension—important skills that create a strong foundation for school success. Best of all, reading together is fun and a wonderful way to connect.
At first, 1,000 books may sound like a big goal, but it adds up quickly when reading becomes part of your daily routine. Reading one book a day reaches the goal in under three years, while reading three books a day gets you there in just one year. Every book counts, even short books, and rereading favorites counts too. Repetition helps children learn, remember, and feel confident.
This program is designed to be flexible and encouraging. There is no pressure—just steady progress and celebration along the way.
In addition to reading books, talk about stories, say nursery rhymes, sing songs, and attend Library programs together. Even short reading sessions make a difference, especially when they happen often and stay enjoyable.
Your Library is a welcoming place with books for all ages, free programs, and helpful suggestions for what to read next. Visit often, explore together, and ask our friendly staff for help anytime.
We hope your family will join the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program and enjoy the many special moments reading together creates.
How to Participate in 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
Participating in the program is easy and free.
- Sign up at your Library. Visit your Library to register your child. You will receive a reading log and information to help you get started.
- Read with your child. Read books together every day when you can. You can read at bedtime, during quiet moments, or anytime that works for your family. Books in any language count.
- Record the titles on your log. Write down each book you read. If you read the same book more than once, you may record it each time. Books read at Library storytime, daycare, preschool, or by grandparents, siblings, or caregivers all count.
- Celebrate every 100 books. Each time you reach 100 books, bring your log to your Library to receive a small reward and encouragement to keep going.
- Reach 500 books. When your child reaches 500 books, they will earn a free book from your Library as a special milestone reward.
- Finish 1,000 books. After completing 1,000 books, your child earns a book, a completion certificate, and a huge jumpstart on success in school.
