1000 Books Before Kindergarten

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a nationwide initiative that encourages child and parent bonding and promotes reading to newborns, infants, and toddlers. Since formal education traditionally does not begin until age 5, caregivers/parents are the first education providers in those critical early years. Establishing language and literacy skills at a young age often has a direct link with academic success and becoming a strong reader. 

To participate, sign up in our Youth Services Department. The program is ongoing and self-paced, meaning you can register any time and finish at your speed. Reading one book a day—and yes, repeat books count—will get you to 1,095 in three years. For every 100 books read, visit the Library for a special sticker and to see your bookmark moved along the wall. 

Graduate Gala

Completing the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a massive accomplishment for both little ones and their caregivers, so we celebrate this feat at our Graduate Gala, held annually the first Thursday in August at 10:00 am. Honorees obtain a gold star and T-shirt diploma, then walk the red carpet into confetti showers.