Take on the Challenge: Can you and your child read 1000 books before they go to Kindergarten?

The concept is simple, the rewards are priceless. The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages parents to read books with their newborn, infant, and toddler. The goal is to read 1,000 books before your child starts kindergarten. Reading together helps children develop important pre-literacy skills that are needed to provide a solid reading foundation, and will be critical in their early years at school.

The Citrus County Library System is excited to announce that we will be launching our very own 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program this year, October 2023. If you are interested in enrolling, just follow these easy steps:

1. Register for the program on the Beanstack website at citruslibraries.beanstack.org or through the Beanstack Reading app! Any child ages birth to five years old can join. Then, visit your local branch to pick up your welcome bag. Don’t forget that they will need a library card number to access the challenge (they can use yours or you can get them one of their own).
2. Read with your child. When you read with your child, you are creating life long memories and fostering early literacy skills. This special time with them will be something that they cherish for years to come.
3. Track your reading. Enter the books you read with your child in Beanstack and earn badges. If you read a book more than once, be sure to record it each time. Books read during library story time programs, at daycare, or by others to your child also count.
4. Celebrate when you reach each milestone! Playing a game together, having a dance party, or spending time outside are all great ways to celebrate.

We want to celebrate with you and your child as you read your way to 1000! For every 100 books read, your child will receive a special sticker. And, when you reach some special milestones, there are additional prizes that they will unlock.

Another great thing, this program has no end date except your child going to school, so don’t feel rushed – just enjoy the journey! Use every chance to read with your child, talk about stories, sing songs, and most importantly visit the library. By reading 1 book a day, you and your child will have read 365 books in 1 year, 730 books in 2 years, and over 1,000 books in 3 years.

So, what are you waiting for?

To learn about programs offered throughout the Citrus County Library System, check out the online calendar at attend.citruslibraries.org/events, or you can call or visit your nearest branch. If you’re looking to stay in-the-know about all things happening at a library near you, follow @CitrusLibraries on Facebook and Instagram or sign-up at citruslibraries.org/subscribe to receive our monthly Kids Events newsletter.