FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Read 1000 books before kindergarten with Middlesex County Library
MIDDLESEX COUNTY (APRIL 14, 2026) – Middlesex County Library is excited to introduce 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, a new literacy program designed to help families build strong reading habits and prepare young children for success in school.
The program invites families to make story time a daily adventure. From silly stories to favourite bedtime books, reading together builds language skills, fuels imagination, and helps little ones develop a strong foundation for learning.
Who Can Participate
The program is open to children born in or after 2021 who reside in Middlesex County. Families are encouraged to begin as early as possible, as the goal is to read 1,000 books together before your child starts kindergarten.
How the Program Works
Families register for the program by visiting a branch – and registration is limited to 100 participants. More information can be found on Middlesex County Library's website.
After registering, families receive a reading tracker and can start counting books right away.
Any book counts, including:
- Library books
- Books from home
- Daycare or preschool books
- Repeated books always count, and any reading done together can be included.
Families track their reading at home and return to the library to celebrate progress and milestones.
Milestones and Rewards
- Children receive star stickers at interim milestones
- At 500 books, children can choose a free book
- At 1,000 books, children receive a certificate and another free book
Library staff will cheer on children and families throughout the program, celebrating every milestone along the way.
For more information or to register, visit a Middlesex County Library branch.
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Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 81,700 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and wonderful sense of community.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations
Legislative Services Division