1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost brain power?

The simple and enjoyable act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills such as:

  • Hearing each of the sounds in a word
  • Understanding that letters represent sounds
  • Developing vocabulary
  • Building background knowledge

All of the above are important skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten.

Wasatch County Library’s 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Program

A fun, exciting, and free way to start your child on the path to success! Any child ages birth to five years can participate.


1. How to Begin: 

  • Get the 1,000 Books Tracking Materials at Wasatch County Library. Or...
  • Click here to download and print the 1,000 Books Tracking Materials. Or...
  • iPhone users can download the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten App.

2. Read and Track:

  • Write down each book you've read with your child. Or...
  • Fill in each circle on the Tracking Materials after you finish each book.

3. Every Book Counts: 

  • Do you read one book on repeat? Count each time you read their current favorite! And...
  • You can count the books your child hears at Storytime, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member.
  • Every book counts!

4. Milestones are celebrated at Wasatch County Library: 

  • Ever 100 books you complete bring your Tracking Materials to the library!
  • Your child can add a sticker to the 1,000 Books Reading Train.
  • Get your next set of Tracking Materials.

5. Keep on Reading:

  • 1000 books goes by faster than you think and you and your child have made strides in their education!

One thousand books may seem like a lot. You can read one book daily and you’ll meet your goal in less than 3 years. If you read three books a day, you could reach your goal in just one year! Ask your Wasatch County Library staff for suggestions!
We’re here to help you and your child on the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten train!

Singing songs, learning rhymes, telling stories, and playing with your child are all great ways to build their early literacy skills. Visit your local library often for free, fun, and educational programs. And of course to find books!

Check out the Early Literacy Activity Calendar for FREE and FUN daily ways to engage your child!

Happy Reading!