What is 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a program designed to help parents prepare their children for one of life’s big milestones: kindergarten. Research has shown that children get ready to read long before they enter school. An excellent way to get your child ready to learn is to read to them.
Why should your family participate in 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten?
Love of Reading
Reading with your child and making it a special time together shows them that reading is valuable and enjoyable. You can start to develop a love of reading in your child from a very young age!
Ready to Read
You are your child’s first teacher and your home is where your child begins to learn. When you talk, sing, read, write, and play you are helping your child get ready to read!
Appreciation for the Library
By coming to the library together you can show your child how the library works, help them gain an appreciation for the wide range of materials available and get recommendations for books that can broaden your child’s interests.
| Child's Age when 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Starts | Number of Books to Read Per Day to Complete 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten | Number of Books to Read Per Week to Complete 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten |
| 0 Years Old | 1 | 4 |
| 1 Year Old | 1 | 5 |
| 2 Years Old | 1 | 7 |
| 3 Years Old | 2 | 10 |
| 4 Years Old | 3 | 20 |
How to Participate
Sign in or Register for an Account on Beanstack
By visiting our online logging software you can login with your account information from previous years. If you are new to our site, you can create a login!
Register for 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
After signing in and creating a Beanstack account, you will need to register for 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program. If you do not register, you cannot log reading, earn badges or prizes.
Log books read to earn badges and prizes.
Breakdown of Books Read and Prizes
| Number of Books Read | Digital Badge | Sticker* | Prize* |
| 50 | |||
| 100 | |||
| 150 | |||
| 200 | |||
| 250 | |||
| 300 | |||
| 350 | |||
| 400 | |||
| 450 | |||
| 500 |
|
||
| 550 | |||
| 600 | |||
| 650 | |||
| 700 | |||
| 750 | |||
| 800 | |||
| 850 | |||
| 900 | |||
| 950 | |||
| 1,000 |
|
*Stickers and Prizes can be redeemed at your nearest Metro Library
No Internet Access? No Problem
You can keep track of the books read through a paper log or remembering how many books you've read. Visit with a library staff member to help enter information into your child's log.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten FAQs
Upcoming Events
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Earth Day 2026: Kids Get a Free Tree!
We're partnering with Neighborhood Forest to give free trees to kids to plant on Earth Day (April 22, 2026)!
Disclaimer(s)
We can only guarantee one kit per household and per registration (if required).
Fan Fiction/ Fan Art Contest Submissions
The Southern Oaks Library Fan Fiction and Fan Art contest was founded by John Hilbert. In dedication to John's work, the contest continues to recognize the remarkable talents of people in our community.
Hina Matsuri Kimono Art Take-Home Kit
Celebrate Hina Matsuri, also known as Girls’ Day in Japan, with this fun and colorful take-home craft. In Japan, families display special dolls each year on March 3 to wish for health and happiness.
Disclaimer(s)
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to be in attendance and be engaged with your child for this program.
Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.
It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.
Women in STEM Coloring Book Passive Program
Get a coloring book in honor of Women's History Month all about women in STEM.
Join us for a storytime at your neighborhood library! Skilled librarians will introduce little ones to the library and show parents and caregivers invaluable information on reading readiness and create excitement about reading. Connect with others while enjoying stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and more!
Join us for Saturday Family Storytime at the Belle Isle Library! Enjoy a fun-filled morning of books, songs, play, and interactive activities, perfect for the whole family. Activities will vary week to week.
Disclaimer(s)
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to be in attendance and be engaged with your child for this program.
Sharing in playtime is an excellent way to help children build social skills, promote learning, and discover that the library is a destination for fun! Children will have the opportunity to practice skills such as: following directions, socializing with others, using language, and using small and large muscles. Come meet new friends, bond with your little one, and explore the many resources your neighborhood library has to offer!
Disclaimer(s)
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to be in attendance and be engaged with your child for this program.