The Very Ready Reading Program: 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

The Very Ready Reading Program: 1,000 Books before Kindergarten is a new library program that encourages parents and caregivers to read 1,000 books with their children before they enter kindergarten  – a goal experts say children need to help them learn to read for themselves.

Research shows that the more children ages 0-5 hear and view books read to them, the more prepared they will be to learn to read upon reaching kindergarten. Exposing children to 1,000 books before kindergarten not only builds reading readiness, but it provides 1,000 interactions to build supportive relationships with parents and caregivers.

How Does the Program Work? 

• Sign up online at  http://ct.evanced.info/coventrypl/sr/homepage.asp  or in the library. Visit the Children's Department to receive your Reading Journal and bag of goodies, including a bookmark, a sharing guide, and tips to help make reading aloud one of the most enjoyable and beneficial activities you will ever share with a child.
• Each time you read 100 books, bring your Reading Journal to the Children's Department to receive a prize,  a sticker and the next set of pages for your journal. A staff member (with your permission) will take a picture of your child to display on our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten wall.
• Don’t be daunted! Just 3 books a day amounts to 1,000 books in 1 year, and this program is designed to give you  time over a few years to meet your goal.
• After finishing 1,000 books, your child will receive a special prize and an invitation to a “graduation” party. During the party the children who have completed the program during the previous year will be honored with a special story time, snack and a group photo.