The idea is simple: reading to your children before age 5 improves their ability to succeed in Kindergarten, and sets them up with the building blocks that they need for future success!
Reading 1,000 books is easier than you might think!
- By reading just one book per day, you will reach the 1,000-book goal in just under three years.
- If a child hears three books at bedtime every night, you will meet your goal within one year!
Register
You can now register and track your books using the ReadSquared platform! (This is the same platform we used for the summer reading program, and you can even use the same login!)
If you’ve already gotten started on paper, and want to continue on paper, you don’t have to do anything. Just keep reporting to Miss Jess in Youth Services when you’ve completed another 100 books.
If you’ve already gotten started on paper and would like to switch to using ReadSquared, join the 1,000 Books program on ReadSquared, then email us at kids@amesfreelibrary.org so we can add any books you’ve already reported.
This welcome letter tells you a little more about the program.
Reading Log
You can track your books using ReadSquared by entering each book title. If you read a book more than once, you can enter it more than once!
Milestone stickers for every 100 books read
For every 100 books you and your child read, you’ll earn a badge on the ReadSquared app. The next time you come in to the library, stop at the Youth Services desk to get your sticker(s) as well.
Free book of your child’s choice for every 500 books read
If you and your child have read at least 500 books, you can choose a new-to-you free book to add to your home library!
1,000 Books milestone
When you reach 1,000 books, your child will earn a second free book along with a certificate, and we will put his or her name on the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” bulletin board to recognize your child’s achievement!
Start your 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten journey now!
