News & Updates

Research has proven over and over that children get ready to read before beginning formal education. The Marion Public Library (MPL) is helping to foster these skills through the relaunch of their 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.

The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program makes it easier than ever to give children a jump on literacy and lifelong learning skills. This number, while large, becomes manageable when reading is a daily priority. Reading just one book a day – 365 books in a year – means that the goal can be achieved in three years.

“We are beyond excited to relaunch this program for our community,” Children & Family Services Library Assistant Lara Moellers said. “Each 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten participant learns many valuable skills, regardless of their age when they start the program.”

Patrons can sign up for the program by visiting the library or through an online form. Program participants receive a folder of materials, which includes information about the program, the library, and milestone trackers. Each time a participant hits a reading milestone, they can check-in at the library to celebrate their accomplishment.

Through this program, library staff hope that patrons will foster a love of reading, appreciation for libraries, and bonding time for children and their caregivers.

“Our role [as the library] is to be a place of learning and engagement for our patrons,” Moellers added. “We want to help parents prepare their children for one of life’s biggest milestones, and this program is a tool we are proud to offer.”

To enroll in the program, click here.