1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a library program that encourages all NOPL families and caregivers to read 1000 books with their young children before they enter kindergarten. Research has shown that reading to children before their formal education begins is the most effective way to prepare them to read on their own.

How can I possibly read 1000 books?!

If you read 3 books each night, you’ll be able to read 1000 books IN LESS THAN A YEAR! You can re-read books, listen to children’s audiobooks, and read books online – and books read during library story times count too!

Your child will be rewarded for reading!

Read your first 100 books and you’ll get a reusable tote bag! After 500 books you’ll get a free book, and at 1000 books your child will get to “adopt” a new book at the library. We’ll place a bookplate in the front of a book they choose sharing their accomplishment!

Who can participate?

Any child who hasn’t entered kindergarten yet can join the 1000 Books challenge.

How do I get started?

  1. Visit or call any NOPL branch to get registered.
  2. Keep track of the books you’ve read with our printable reading log below (which you can also pick up at the library).
  3. Show us your tracking sheets to receive your reward!

Any and all books count!

Don’t forget to count books read at story times, re-reads of favorite books, audiobooks, and eBooks.

Here are some websites where you can find free eBooks and eAudiobooks for kids online:

Storyline Online
Unite for Literacy
Story Place
Starfall

Here’s a list of book that have been “adopted” so far!
To borrow a book or place a hold, click the title to go to the OCPL catalog.