1000 Books Before School

Did you know that reading together is the best way to encourage a love of books in your child?

Sharing stories with babies and young children helps develop literacy skills that will prepare them for reading at school.

The 1000 Books Before School program is a great way to track your child's reading progress as you work towards building these important skills.

Watch our video to find out more!

How 1000 Books Before School works

  • Register at one of the local participating public libraries listed below to receive your first Reading Record and reading kit to get you started. A library membership may be required to join the program.
  • Mark, colour or place a sticker on your Reading Record each time you read together with your child.
  • Each time you reach a milestone in your Reading Record, bring it in to your local library for a special reward.
  • Every book that your child completes, or actively listens to, counts – this includes stories read at Storytime sessions, daycare, playgroup, kindergarten, as well as the same book over and over again. You can read books from anywhere – not just library books.
  • The program finishes once your child reaches 1000 books, or starts school. Congratulations!

Participating libraries

Register with one of the following participating public libraries: