Our Reading Buddies Hokey Pokey, Ginger, and Rascal Raccoon want every child to have the opportunity to read 1,000 books before they enter kindergarten. 1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a library program that supports families with young children in reaching this important milestone.
Why is it important to read 1,000 books?
Studies have shown that families who start reading aloud to their children at birth help strengthen their language skills and build their vocabulary — two important tools when they begin learning to read in kindergarten. Studies also show that reading with your child increases bonding, giving you a priceless opportunity to make memories with your child.
How does 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten work?
1. Register at any Washington County Public Library where you will receive a reading log, or register on the library website through the ReadSquared app. Reading logs can be printed from the library website as well.
2. Color a circle on the log for every book you read to your child.
3. You will receive a “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” book bag upon completing your first 100 books!
4. You will receive a new log (2 sheets with 50 circles each) and a prize every time you read 100 books and bring your log into your library branch.
5. When you reach 1,000 books, you will receive a certificate and a free book.
6. Older children who read to younger children are Reading Superheroes and will receive a small prize for every 25 books they read to the enrolled child.
Reading Superheroes
Older children who read to younger children are Reading Superheroes and can earn a treat for every 25 books they read to an enrolled child!
Available Downloads
- 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten – Reading Log (Available for pickup at your local library)
Our Partners
- Utah Online School K-12 (www.utahonline.org)
- Washington County School District Preschool (www.washk12.org/pre-school/)
- The Learning Center for Families (www.tlc4families.org)
How Can I Read 1,000 Books?
It’s easy!
3 books a day for 1 year = 1,095 books
1 book a day for 3 years = 1,095 books
Help! I don’t know which books to read!
The library staff will gladly help you pick some books.
What if my child wants to read the same book over and over?
Repetition is key to learning. Each time you read a book, it counts. If you read the same book 5 times, color 5 circles.
Do I have to read books from the library?
You can read books from anywhere – not just library books.
Can I log the books my child hears at story time?
Yes! Any and every book your child hears counts for this program, including audiobooks.
Who can read the books?
Anyone can read the books! In fact, everyone who reads to children are superheroes!
