1000 Before 5: A literacy program for young children

Overview

We invite families to participate in this free program that encourages adults to read 1,000 books with children before they turn 5 or enter Kindergarten. Reading is one of the most important early literacy practices. It helps to develop children’s vocabulary and comprehension, as well as nurtures a love of reading. When we read to children, not only do they develop good pre-reading skills but also are ready to learn to read!

How it Works

1. Register your child using the Google Form.
2. Visit the Children’s Librarian to receive your tote bag and registration folder.
3. Read any book to your child and record your progress in the log.
4. Bring back your log when you hit milestones to receive an iron-on patch for your tote bag. Milestones include 100 books, 250 books, 500 books, and 750 books.
5. 1,000 books! The library will acknowledge your accomplishment with a new book of your choice to continue your reading adventures.

Sounds Like a Lot?

Take “a steady as she goes” approach.  Take a look at our reading suggestions with a list of 50 books to choose from before they turn 5. 

12 to 36 Months

3 to 5 Years

The Benefits

Reading aloud has clear benefits for your child.  Not only does it build reading skills, reading aloud strengthens your child’s social and emotional skills.  They are better able to describe feelings that might otherwise be difficult for them to understand and explain.  Developing a habit of reading aloud to your child can sometimes feel overwhelming with hectic schedules and family obligations.  PBS for Parents has three tips to make the task enjoyable: 

1. Start Early and read often.  Make the habit of reading part of your bond with your children around a shared experience.
2. Read the Pictures.  The artwork in a picture book provides another opportunity for discussion and exploration of the story in a different modality. Ask questions and allow for all responses. Take the time to explore the book cover, the characters, and help them make connections to their world. 
3. Slow Down.  Take the time when reading to stop and ask questions and ponder the story more deeply. Don’t rush the story, savor the images and vocabulary.

FAQ

Who can participate?
Any child from birth until 5 can participate.

How long will the program take?
The program is self-paced and will depend on how often you read together.

How many of my children can participate?
Any child who has not yet started kindergarten may participate.

Which books count?
Books that you, a preschool teacher, a caregiver and/or family member read to your child count towards your goal. Books read during Storytime at the library also count toward your reading goal. You may count audiobooks, ebooks and/or iPad apps that read or tell a story as books toward your goal. Just remember to log them.

Can I count a book more than once?
You can! Record the book as many times as you read it!