1,000 Books Before Kindergarten


Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost his or her brain power? The simple and enjoyable act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills such understanding the sounds letters make, developing a bigger vocabulary, and building background knowledge- all important skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten.

Steps for Registration & Participation

Paola Free Library's 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program is a fun, exciting, and free way to start your child on the path to success! Any child not yet in kindergarten can participate. Just follow these steps.

  1. Register: Sign up online or in person at the library.
  2. Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  3. Track Your Reading:
    • Stop by the library to pick up a reading log.
    • Design your own reading log to track each time your child reads 100 books.
    • Go high tech with the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Application
    • Old school tally marks with pencil and paper
    • Whatever works best for you!
  4. Every Book Counts: Even if your child wants to hear the same book again and again, you can count it each time. You can also count the books your child hears in story time, daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family member.
  5. 100 Books:
    • When you've read your first 100 books either stop by the library to have their picture taken or, help your child make a sign that says, "I've read (#) books!" Take a picture and email it to Ms. Cari at cmichael@paolagov.org
    • With your permission, Ms. Cari will post your child 's picture and first name on the library's social media accounts. 
    • If you do not want your child's picture on social media, just let us know. We would still like a photo at each reading level.  We are making memory books for the children with their photos once the reach 1,000 books.
    • Your child will have their name placed on our progress wall and receive stickers. 
  6. 200-400 Books:
    • We'll take your child's picture at each milestone.
    • They will move their name on the progress wall and receive stickers. 
  7. 500 Books: You receive a small stuffed puppy that says, "I Love Reading".
  8. 600-800 Books:
    • We'll take your child's picture at each milestone.
    • They will move their name on the progress wall and receive stickers.
  9. 1,000 Books: You did it! Once the library reopens, stop by and pick up your memory book, a backpack, and your choice of a book.
  10. Keep on Reading: Don't stop at 1,000! Keep on reading together; there's more learning ahead!

Other Ways to Build Literacy

Singing songs, saying rhymes, telling stories, and playing with your child are all great ways to build their literacy skills. Visit Paola Free Library often for free programs that are fun and educational for your little one and to find great books to share with your child.

Check out the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten website for more educational apps.

You Can Do It!

One thousand books may seem like a lot, but if you read just one book a night, you'll meet your goal in less than 3 years. If you read three books a night, you could reach your goal in just 1 year! Ask our friendly staff for suggestions- we're here to help you on your journey to 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten!

Happy Reading!