The Library’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a fun, exciting, and free way to start children on the path to success by promoting pre-reading skills such as understanding the sounds letters make, developing a bigg
er vocabulary, and building background knowledge—all important skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten.
Any child, birth to five years, who is eligible for our library’s services can participate.
Just follow these steps:
Register: Find program sign- up materials at the library, online or we can mail them to participants.
- Link to application for library services and information: https://blind.iowa.gov/library
- Link to program registration and information: https://blind.iowa.gov/children-and-teen-services
Track Your Reading: Use the supplied reading log to keep track of the books read.
Every Book Counts: Even if the child wants to hear the same book again and again, it can be counted each time. Books that are heard at story time, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member can also be counted.
100-Book Milestones: Each time participants read 250 books, let the library know and they will receive a special reward.
1,000 Books: Celebrate! The child’s name will be placed on the 1,000 Book Wall of Fame and they will receive your final reward.
Keep on Reading: Don’t stop at 1,000! Keep on reading together.
Singing songs, saying rhymes, telling stories, and playing with children are all great ways to build their literacy skills. One thousand books may seem like a lot, but by reading just one book a day, the goal can be met in less than 3 years
For more information or to register, contact Lois Crozier at 515-281-1295 or Iois.crozier@blind.state.ia.us.
