How do I start?
- Register online through ReadSquared, or sign up at the library.
- Track books as you go using the reading log on ReadSquared, or using a paper log available at the library.
Choose whichever method is most convenient for you, but please use only one way to track books to avoid confusion!
What is it?
1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a program that encourages parents & guardians to read at least 1000 books to their child before they start Kindergarten. Research shows that children that are read to in early childhood perform better in school compared to children who are not read to.
Who can participate?
Any child who has not yet started Kindergarten can participate. That includes newborns and babies! It’s never too early to start!
How does the program work?
Register your child. Then start logging books on your reading log every time you read to your child or they listen to a book.
What kind of books count?
Any book that your child listens to counts, including books read at Library Storytimes and at preschool. Audiobooks, magazines and comic books count too!
Books can be read and logged more than once. Repetition is a great way for children to learn, so don’t worry about reading their favorite books over and over again!
Do you have any suggestions on what books to read to my child?
We sure do! Here are some suggested reading lists.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten – Books Your Child Should Hear Before Kindergarten
You can find most of these books by visiting the library, or you can read them online using our Online Library.
Visit our Early Literacy Page for more books suggestions and information on helping your child get Ready to Read.
How long will the program take to complete?
Not as long as you think! If you read 1 book per day, you will reach your goal in 3 years. If you read 3 books a day, you will finish in less than a year! Remember, you don’t have to do all the reading yourself! Encourage other family members, including older siblings to read to your child. Books read at preschool and at Library Storytimes count too!
Are there prizes?
Absolutely!
For every 100 books read and logged, children can come to the library to receive a special sticker and a choice of a picture book to keep. With guardian permission, we will also take a picture of your child and announce their achievement on the library’s social media accounts.
At 1000 books, your child will receive a sticker, a choice of a picture book to keep, a small prize, and a special certificate of accomplishment. With guardian permission, we will take a picture of your child and announce their achievement on the library’s social media accounts.
