Reading aloud to your child is the best way to prepare them for reading and writing success in school. The time before a child enters kindergarten is crucial for language and brain development, as well as for fostering a lifelong love of reading.

What is 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?

It’s a free program that encourages you to read 1,000 books with your child before they start kindergarten. It's easy, fun, and a great way to bond with your young child. Although 1,000 sounds like a lot - just one book a day adds up fast!

Ready to sign up? Fill out the registration form below or scroll down further for more program details and resources.

How It Works

1. Read together: Any book counts, and you can repeat your favorites as many times as you like.
2. Track your books: Use our paper reading log or download the free app.
3. Celebrate milestones: Earn fun rewards along the way!
4. Finish strong: When you reach 1,000 books, your child gets a certificate, a book bag, and a special magnet.

Why Join?

• Helps your child develop early literacy skills.
• Encourages a lifelong love of reading.
• Builds strong family connections through shared reading.
• Prepares your child for school success.

How to Start

• Visit any Santa Clara City Library to pick up a Starter Kit and fill out the registration form.
• Print out the reading logs linked below, get them from any of our Library branches, or download the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten app (iPhone / Android) to track your progress online.

Join us for library storytimes full of books, songs, and play! Check the calendar at sclibrary.org/events

FAQs

• Who can join? Any child from birth to kindergarten.
• How long does it take? It’s up to you! Go at your own pace.
• Can I read the same book more than once? Yes! repetition is great for growing minds.
• Do books have to come from the library? No - any book counts.

RESOURCES

Program Instructions

• Program Instructions (PDF)
• Program Instructions (Spanish/Español) (PDF)

Reading Log Sheets - Choose the log you want to use!

• Checkbox Tracker (PDF) - Simply check off a box for each book you read.
• Book Title Logs (PDF) - Record each book title you read.

Book Lists

• Toddler Booklist
• Preschool Booklist

More Information about Early Literacy

• 1000 Books Before Kindergarten website
• First 5 California
• Reading Rockets
• Mem Fox's Ten Read-Aloud Commandments

1000 Books Before Kindergarten is made possible with the generous support of the Santa Clara City Library Foundation and Friends.