Greenwich Library is proud to announce the launch of 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, a free and engaging early literacy initiative designed to foster a love of reading and prepare children for academic success. The program is generously funded by a donation in memory of Margie Partland.
This self-paced program invites families to read 1,000 books with their child before they enter kindergarten. Research shows that reading aloud to children from birth significantly enhances vocabulary, comprehension, and early literacy skills, giving them a strong foundation for learning to read.
“Reading just one book a night adds up quickly,” said Krishna Grady, Head of Greenwich Library’s Children’s Services team. “In one year, that’s 365 books. In two years, 730. In three years, over 1,000 books—more than enough to give your child a head start.”
How It Works:
- Visit the Library’s website to register your child on Beanstack, then stop by the Children’s Desk to receive a tote bag and registration folder.
- Read any book to your child and log each title.
- Celebrate milestones at 100, 250, 500, 750, and 1,000 books with special iron-on patches for your tote bag.
- Reach 1,000 books and receive a free book to continue your child’s reading journey.
This program is open to any child from birth until kindergarten, and families can read books from anywhere—not just the library.
“We’re thrilled to offer a program that empowers parents and caregivers to build strong literacy habits from the very beginning,” said Joe Williams, Greenwich Library Director. “It’s never too early to start reading together.”
The Children’s Services team at Greenwich Library is dedicated to nurturing a lifelong love of reading and learning. Their mission is to support families in building strong literacy foundations through engaging programs, accessible resources, and meaningful community connections.
“We believe that early literacy is one of the most powerful tools we can give children,” said Grady. “Programs like 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten help families make reading a joyful and consistent part of everyday life.”
For more information or to register, visit Greenwich Library’s website or stop by the Children’s Desk.
The Greenwich Library system consists of the Main Library and its Byram Shubert and Cos Cob branches. The mission of Greenwich Library is to provide exceptional resources, programs and services that promote the joy of lifelong learning and discovery, and to offer a welcoming place for the community to gather and share experiences. With 2,200 programs and events per year, the Library seeks to serve as the cultural and intellectual crossroads of the community. Greenwich Library’s circulation is among the highest of public libraries in Connecticut and has been named a five-star library by Library Journal for 11 of the past 12 years for the high number of patron visits, circulation, use of public computers, and program attendance. Greenwich Library is located at 101 West Putnam Avenue in Greenwich. Cos Cob Library is located at 5 Sinawoy Road in Cos Cob. Byram Shubert Library is located at 21 Mead Avenue in Greenwich. More information is available online at www.greenwichlibrary.org or by calling 203-622-7900.