1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

What is the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge?

This library program encourages all Virginia Beach families and caregivers to read at least 1,000 books with their young children before they enter kindergarten.

Reading to preschool-age children builds vocabulary and helps develop the language skills they need for kindergarten. In as little as 15 minutes a day, families can build the skills for future school and life success.

Who can participate?

Preschool-age children (0-5 years old) with their families/caregivers.

How does 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge work?

Register or sign in online – Visit your library to pick up a free badge book, while supplies last.
Track your reading – Log the titles you read with your child and visit the library to receive a sticker each time you read 100 books.
Read more books – Keep logging until you reach 1,000 books.
Celebrate! – When you reach 1,000 books, visit the library to receive your book bag and a free book of your choice to keep!

Tips:

Count any books that are read to your child, no matter who reads the books. Children learn through repetition - you can read the same book multiple times. Books read at storytime count, too. Learn about storytimes.