Reading aloud to your child is one of the best ways to build early literacy skills and prepare them for success in school, and life. This program encourages families to read together and celebrate every step along the way.

You can start anytime, and the goal is simple: read 1,000 books before your child enters kindergarten. That may sound like a lot, but reading just one book a night adds up to over 1,000 books in just three years! Any book counts, whether it’s from home, the library, daycare, or storytime, and you’re welcome to reread favorites as often as you like.

As they move closer to the final goal, your child will earn prizes to keep the motivation going. At 500 books, they’ll receive a special early literacy themed prize, like a puzzle or game. When they finish all 1,000 books, they’ll be celebrated with a brand new book to keep!

Families track their progress using a reading log you’ll receive at sign-up, along with a bag and some goodies to get started. You’re invited to check in at the Youth Reference Desk every 100 books, or at major milestones, to update your log and move your child’s name along our milestone wall, showcasing each reader’s journey.