1000 Books Before Kindergarten: Home

Welcome to Helen Hall Library's 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program!

Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost his or her brain power? The simple and enjoyable act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills such as understanding the sounds letters make, developing a bigger vocabulary, and building background knowledge—all important skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten.

The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a fun, exciting, and free way to start your child on the path to success! Any child ages birth to five years can participate. Just follow these steps:

1. Register: Print out the registration form for the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program and fill it out. Turn the registration form in to one of the Children's Librarians at the Children's Services reference desk.
2. Track Your Reading: Fill, circle, or sticker your way through the boxes on the reading logs. Once every box has been marked, turn in the log to one of the Children's Librarians at the Children's Services reference desk for a sticker and a new log. Don't forget to mark the occasion by taking a photo with our posters!
3. Every Book Counts: Even if your child wants to hear the same book again and again, you can count it each time. You can also count the books your child hears in story time, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member, as long as your child listens to the entire book.
4. 1,000 Books: Once you've finished your tenth reading log, come celebrate at the library, see your child’s name placed on the 1,000 Book Wall of Fame, take a photo with our 'I read 1000 Books' poster, and receive a free book bag!
5. Keep on Reading: Don’t stop at 1,000! Keep on reading together; there’s more learning ahead!

Singing songs, saying rhymes, telling stories, and playing with your child are all great ways to build their literacy skills. Visit Helen Hall Library often for free programs that are fun and educational for your little one and to find great books to share with your child.

One thousand books may seem like a lot, but if you read just one book a night, you’ll meet your goal in less than 3 years. If you read three books a night, you could reach your goal in just one year! Ask our friendly staff for suggestions—we’re here to help you on your journey to 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten!

Happy Reading!