1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost their 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.

Rachel Kohl Community Library’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a fun, exciting, and free way to start your child on the path to success!

Participation

Any child ages birth to five years can participate.

1. Register: Sign up at Rachel Kohl Community Library Circulation Desk. Pick up program materials at the Library or print them from the official 1000 Books website. Optional: Get your photo on our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Wall of Fame!
2. Track Your Reading: Check off a line or write down each book you read with your child on your reading log sheets or keep track online by registering at Delaware County Beanstack 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. If you’d rather use your electronic device, you can track your reading using the official 1000 Books app for iOS (Apple devices) or the official app from Google Play (Android devices).
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 storytime, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member, as long as your child listens to the entire book.
4. 100-Book Milestones: Each time you read 100 books, bring your reading record to the Library to receive a special reward. You can also take home a new reading record for your next 100 books.
5. 1,000 Books: You did it! Come celebrate at the Library, see your child’s name moved to a special place on the 1000 Book Wall of Fame, and a book plate with your child’s name placed in a new library book!
6. Keep on Reading: Don’t stop at 1000! Keep on reading together; there’s more learning ahead!

Building Literacy

Singing songs, saying rhymes, telling stories, and playing with your child are all great ways to build their literacy skills. Visit Rachel Kohl Community 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 1000 Books Before Kindergarten! Happy Reading!

Questions?

If you have any questions about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the children’s librarian at [email protected] or by phone at 610-358-3445.