1 Thousand Books Before Kindergarten (1KB4K) is designed for children from birth until they enter kindergarten. 1KB4K encourages families to make reading together part of their everyday routine to help children build vocabulary, develop early literacy skills, and foster a love of books long before they step into a classroom, ensuring they have the foundations of literacy to build upon at school.

While 1,000 books may sound like an ambitious goal, it is more achievable than many families think. Reading just one book each day adds up to 365 books in a year, and stories can be enjoyed and counted repeatedly toward the challenge. There is no one way to participate in this program, as it is completely self-paced. Participating families can pick up and turn in their reading records as well as pick up prizes at either SPL branch.

Southwest Public Libraries is grateful for the generosity of Patty and Sid Drumheiser that has strengthened this beloved program and looks forward to celebrating every milestone with the families who participate. Whether you're discovering 1KB4K for the first time or continuing your child's reading journey, there's never been a better time to open a book together.