1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Children who are exposed to lots of books early in life are better prepared once they start kindergarten. Read with your little one and try to reach the goal of 1000 books before they start kindergarten, and earn cool prizes along the way!

1000 books might seem like a lot, but it is really just one book a day for less than three years. You can read the same book over and over again, or we can help you find new books to read with your little one! Just fill our My Next Read form. Check out our Kids page for recommended reading lists.

You can count books read by anyone, including friends and family! You can also attend a library storytime or call our Storyline (804-501-1946) to get some new books to count.

As you meet different milestones, you will earn exciting rewards, starting with a reading log at 100 books, a library tote bag at 200, and a free book at 500! Those who complete the challenge will get a magnetic picture frame and Certificate of Completion.

You can participate entirely online or contact your local HCPL branch to pick up a paper tracking sheet. You can also print your log and tracking sheets at home, or we can help you pick them up using our Curbside Pick-Up. If you prefer to track your books on a mobile device, download the free Beanstack Tracker app: iOS / Android.

You can learn more about the program on our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten page.