Research shows that the more children ages 0-5 hear books read to them, the more prepared they are to learn to read upon entering kindergarten.

When you read together, your child learns how the world works, hears new words, and learns empathy. Plus, it’s a fun bonding activity for you and your child!

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a free program that will help your child prepare for school. It is for children ages birth through age 5 (or entering kindergarten). All you need to get started is a Carol Stream Library card number. Participate using this app or using a paper log binder.

How does 1000 Books work?

1. Register at the Youth Services Desk for the option to log books online or in a provided book log binder.
2. Track your reading — log every book that is read to your child!
3. Receive free books — you get a book just for registering! And for every 100 books logged, you get another book to add to your child's home library.
4. Keep reading! — help your child get ready to read by reading at least 1,000 books before they enter kindergarten.

Questions? Call Youth Services at 630-344-6127 or e-mail children@cslibrary.org.