Develop your child's early literacy skills by reading books with them before they start kindergarten! Earn rewards and free books along the way as you log your reading. Any child who has not yet started kindergarten and whose parent or caregiver has a Hunterdon County Library card is eligible for this free reading program.

Please note that the child who is participating or their parent/caregiver must have a Hunterdon County Library card in good standing in order to participate in this program.

This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Hunterdon County Library. 

How do I sign up and keep track of my child's reading?

You can register for this challenge online through Beanstack. Create an account or log in to your existing account. Add a profile for your child who will be participating, then set your child's grade to "Babies and Toddlers" or "Preschool" to view and sign up for the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge. Track the number of books you read through Beanstack's mobile app or website, then pick up your earned rewards at the Headquarters or North County Branch Youth Services Department as you complete the challenge! You will be asked to present your Hunterdon County Library card before picking up your reward.

How will I reach 1,000 books?

1,000 seems like a daunting number, but the challenge can be completed in fewer than three years by reading just one book a day with your child.

Books can be logged multiple times, so reading a favorite book over and over will count more than once! Repetition is an excellent tool for learning and developing early literacy skills.

Books from anywhere count towards your goal, not just library books!

Every book your child reads and listens to counts towards your goal, including books your child listens to at library programs. To learn more about and to register for our storytimes, click here.

When will this challenge be open?

This is an ongoing reading program, so you can begin and complete the challenge at any time before your child enters kindergarten.

Milestone Rewards

Welcome Package: Tote bag, instruction sheets, free book to keep

100-400 Books: Sticker for each 100 book milestone

500 Books: Sticker and free book to keep

600-900 Books: Sticker for each 100 book milestone

1000 Books Completion Reward: 1,000 Books penguin plush, certificate, and 2 free books to keep

Graduation Ceremony

Participants who have completed the program are invited to celebrate at our annual graduation ceremony. 

Dates and times coming soon.