[Curtis Library's 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Logo: A fox snuggles with a puffin as they read together under the Curtis Kids logo. Designed by Liz Snowdon.]Launching on September 12!

We’re excited to invite Curtis Library families with children from birth to kindergarten to participate in 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, a national early literacy program that promotes reading to newborns, infants, and toddlers to encourage parent/guardian and child bonding through reading.

On Saturday, September 12, at 10:30AM, author and illustrator Charlotte Agell will help us kick things off with a reading from her new book, Just for Today. And she’ll create quick sketches of as many children as time allows. All ages are welcome, and children who are sketched can take their sketch home!

What is 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?
It’s a simple idea with priceless rewards! Read a book—any book, to your infant, toddler or preschooler. The goal is to read 1,000 books with your child before they reach kindergarten.

Why do it?
Reading aloud is a great way to bond with your little one. Every book you share helps your child build empathy, make connections, and develop the early literacy skills needed for kindergarten.

How long will it take to read 1,000 books?

  • 1 book a day = 1,095 books in 3 years!
  • 3 books a day = 1,095 in just 1 year!

Start (or continue) reading now and see how quickly the books stack up!

There will be celebratory gifts along the way, with special recognition at 100, 500, and 1,000 books read.

Which books count?
All books count—and rereading favorites is encouraged! Picture books, wordless books, audio books, board books, books read at storytime, and books in any language – they all count!

How do we get started?
Stop by the library’s Children’s Desk or Bookmobile to register. We’ll give you a tracking card and tell you more about the program and how we’ll celebrate your progress.

Let’s read together and grow together, one book at a time.