NOTICE:Our May program with Linda McCann has been canceled but we have a new program with a similar theme that same day called, "It's Our War, Too! American Women in World War II." This program will start an hour earlier on Thursday, May 9 @ 5:00 PM. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

Urbandale Public Library/1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is a fun and free program that encourages you to read aloud with your child.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Register at urbandalelibrary.beanstack.org  to create your account. If you prefer a low-tech version, ask for a paper log at Youth Services.
  2. Come to the library to collect your first prize – a free book just for registering!
  3. Log your books as you go. As you reach each milestone, you’ll receive rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What books count?

A:  Any books! Books from your own collection, books at story time, library books, audiobooks. If you are listening to a book, it counts.

Q: Can we read the same books over again?

A: Children love to hear the same books again and again. Read the same book as often as you like – it counts each time.

Q:  What ages can participate?

A: The 1,000 Books program is intended for infants through five years old. If you are already enrolled in the program before six you may keep going until you complete the program.

Q: We’ve finished 1,000 books. Can we keep participating?

A: Several area libraries offer 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and we encourage you to check out their programs after you’ve completed ours. Urbandale Public Library also offers summer and winter reading programs that encourage kids to keep learning!

Q: Can more than one child participate?

A: Yes. We encourage you to have any eligible children sign up. When you register for the program, you may sign up multiple children under your account.

Q: When should my child sign up?

A: You may register any time, from birth through age five.

Q:  Can we really read 1,000 books?

A: It’s easier than you might think.

Start at age 2One book a day
Start at age 3Ten books a week
Start at age 4Two books a day

Q: When do we receive prizes?

A: When you register and at the 250, 500, 750 and 1,000 book milestones, you’ll get to pick out your own book to take home. You will also receive special recognition for reaching 1,000 books.

Q: Where can we pickup prizes?

A: The cart with prize books will be available by the Youth Services desk during Library hours. Prize pickup is self serve.

The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten name and logo are used with permission from the 1,000 Books Foundation.