1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

What is the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program?

It is a free program which encourages you to read 1,000 books with your child before he or she starts Kindergarten. The goal is for you and your child to read books and enjoy the process of reaching your goals. Don’t forget to visit the Library to collect your prizes and let us know your progress!

Who can enter the program?

This program is open from birth until the day your child starts Kindergarten.

How long will the program take?

The program is self-paced and you decide how often and how long you will read to your child. It can take anywhere from 3 months to 3+ years. The program begins the day you register.

Can more than one of my children participate?

Yes, all of them (provided they have not yet started Kindergarten) can participate. Make it even more fun and read as a family!

What books count towards the 1,000 books?

Any books your child reads! They can be books from storytime, your home library, in any language, or even books you’re re-reading.

What are the goals of the program?

To encourage families to work reading aloud to their young children into their regular routine.
To introduce children to a variety of books.
To promote early literacy so children can enter school ready to learn.
To reinforce parents’ role as their child’s first teachers.
To encourage families to regularly use the library for lifelong learning

How does the program work?

Select books for your child – Check out our recommended reading list for ideas.

Log the books you read – Read aloud with your child and log your reading. You can log your reading online using Beanstack or a 1,000 Books logging booklet you’ll receive at the Library.

Collect a prize for every 100 books you read together!

Need Help?

If you have any questions, call the Youth Services at (248) 370-9466.

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