1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Program Overview

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is an ongoing program that encourages parents and caregivers to read with their children early and frequently. The program is based on research showing that the more books children ages 0-5 hear read aloud, the more prepared they will be to begin reading on their own.

For more information, you may visit https://1000booksbeforekindergarten.org.

How to Participate

• Read with your child!
  Reading helps develop many skills in young children, from acquiring language and literacy skills to expanding their understanding of the world. The earlier you begin, the stronger the potential impact.
• Track the books you read with your child.
  Use the logs provided or create a running list of titles on your own log. There is even a “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” app if you prefer digital tracking. If you read a book more than once, record it each time. Books read during storytime, at daycare, or by others to your child count too!
• Bring your completed log to your local Cass County Public Library branch.
  Each time you finish 100 books, come in to celebrate your accomplishment! Bring your log to the library to have it stamped complete and receive your next log! After reading 1000 books, your child will receive a certificate of completion and a book to keep. They will also have an amazing jumpstart on school!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?
Any child ages 0-5 (or who has not yet entered Kindergarten) is eligible to participate.

How long does the program take to complete?
The program can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to complete. It is self-paced, so the time it takes to read 1000 books depends on how often you read together.

How do I get started?
Visit your local Cass County Public Library branch or sign up below. Don’t forget to print out your first log! Subsequent reading logs can be found below the registration form.

What books count toward the program?
Any books you read with your child(ren) together. If you read a book more than once, record it each time. Books read during storytime, at daycare, or by others to your child count too!

Sign up and record your reading now on Beanstack!

Find reading logs below