1000 Books Before Kindergarten: An easy way to raise a reader

Finishers share their stories

1000 Books Before Kindergarten, opens a new window is a nationwide challenge to get your child ready to read and learn by sharing 1000 books and earning prizes before the start of kindergarten. The program is simple, fun and easier than you might think.

“[1000 Books] is the easiest thing in the world,” says Melissa Little, mom to Teddy and Elliott, both finishers of the program. “When you read a little every night, it’s easy to keep track and get it done. And it’s a great way to connect with your family.”

Teddy agrees that it was both easy and fun, but “it was also a little bit hard because it took us a whole year and a half. And 1000 is a big number.”

Despite the challenge of reaching 1000 Books, both Teddy and Elliot are now big lovers of all things library. They attend programs, check out books and visit on a weekly basis. They like learning about topics like koalas and dinosaurs and love chatting with the librarians at Standley Lake.

“I think of the books and the love that’s here,” Teddy says about what the Library now means to him. He smiles broadly as he adds, “I love the Library so much.”

Karen Schaffer, Arvada patron and mom to Boxley and Emma, also recommends parents sign up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten since “It holds you accountable and makes sure you keep up with your reading goals. The milestones along the way are really helpful, plus [the tracker] is fun for the kids to fill out.”

When you sign up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, keep track of your books online or through a fun coloring sheet you can fill out together. For every 100 books read, you receive a new tracker and colorful milestone sticker. After 500 books, you earn a free bag. Then, celebrate your 1000th book by choosing a brand new hardcover book to keep. Consider yourself warned, however, that 1000 Books is not without certain risks…

“[The program] has really gotten my kids interested in reading more,” says one anonymous Golden parent. “Once your kid finishes 1000 Books, be prepared to get a Library card for them because that will be their next request. Now, they’re maxing out our hold limit! I didn’t even know you could do that!”

Sign up to raise a reader of your own  today at jeffcolibrary.org/1000books, opens a new window.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten Fall Parties
Celebrate 1000 Books Before Kindergarten this fall with special parties and events held at each Library. Whether you’ve finished reading 1000 Books, you’re ready to start, or you want to learn about the program – everyone is welcome. Explore the kids’ spaces, make a craft to take home, and learn ways to read, talk, sing, write, and play together. Light breakfast provided.

Bring a friend and earn a prize! (While supplies last).

Ideal for Babies – Preschoolers. 

ARVADA, opens a new window
Mon., Aug. 5, 9 AM - 12 PM
BELMAR, opens a new window
Wed., Aug. 7, 9 AM - 12 PM
CONIFER, opens a new window
Sat., Aug. 10, 9 AM - 12 PM
COLUMBINE, opens a new window
Thurs., Aug. 15, 9 AM - 12 PM
EDGEWATER, opens a new window
Thurs., Aug. 8, 9 AM - 12 PM
EVERGREEN, opens a new window
Mon., Aug. 5, 9 AM - 12 PM
GOLDEN, opens a new window
Tues., Aug. 6, 9 AM - 12 PM
LAKEWOOD, opens a new window
Mon., Aug. 12, 9 AM - 12 PM
  STANDLEY LAKE, opens a new window
Wed., Aug. 14, 9 AM - 12 PM
WHEAT RIDGE, opens a new window
Mon., Aug. 5, 10 AM - 12 PM
 

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