Lorain Public Library System offers a 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative to challenge caregivers to read to and with their children.

Reading to children ages birth to 5 years old is vital for their development. One simple story read-aloud fosters a strong child-caregiver bond and promotes language, literacy and social-emotional skills essential for a child’s lifelong success.

The challenge is themed with fun images of Browser, the Lorain Public Library System’s golden retriever mascot.

Parents can register for the program online here using the link to the right or in person at any of the six branches. Upon registering, participants will receive a 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten tote bag and a reading tracking sheet for their first 100 books; also available for download from this page. After completing the first 100, return to receive your tracking sheet for the second hundred, then their third and so on. Each tracking sheet also features an early literacy tip.

Repeating titles is not only allowed, it’s encouraged! While our littlest patrons are developing their early literacy skills, repetition of stories will reinforce new vocabulary, language patterns, story sequencing and their memories.  The old adage of ‘practice makes perfect’ applies here, too. With each 100 books completed, the child will receive a sticker. At 500 books read, they will receive a 20-page activity book featuring skills required to enter kindergarten. Upon completion of 1,000 books, they are awarded a Browser stuffed animal.

Reading 1,000 books can seem rather daunting. However, if you and your child read just one book as part of your bedtime routine, that will equal 365 books in a year.

That is 730 books in two years and 1,095 books in three years. For more information or to get started on your reading journey, stop by any of the six Lorain Public Library System branches.