Join one of the library’s Beanstack challenges through our Beanstack Site. If you have a Beanstack account from previous challenges, use that login information. If you need help with your login information, library staff are happy to help!
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
This challenge is for ages birth to 5 years.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is an early literacy program. The program encourages all families and caregivers to read at least 1,000 books with their young children before they enter kindergarten. Learning to read begins long before a child enters kindergarten. Reading to your children is the best way to prepare them for school. In as little as 15 minutes a day, families can build the skills for future success in school and life.
1,000 seems like a lot, but you can do it! If you read one bedtime story every night to your child for 3 years, you will have shared 1,095 books!
500 Books Before Middle School
This challenge is for Kindergarten through 5th grade.
In this multi-year challenge, students can read at their own pace (with a grown-up or on their own.) There are no assigned books, no deadlines (other than finishing before you start grade 6), and no reports to write. Read whatever you want, whenever you want!
100 Books Before Graduation
This challenge is for 6th through 12th grade.
We know that middle and high school can be a busy time, and school work and activities can take over your life. However, reading books for fun (not just for classes) is a great way to slow down, escape real-life pressures, and recharge by stepping outside yourself for a bit. Sign up at any time, and read at your own pace!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any book be counted?
You can read any book you want, from anywhere! Check out books from the public library or the school library, buy a book at the bookstore, or read books you already have at home.
I have an iPad. Can it be used for the reading challenges?
Yes! You can listen to or read books on e-readers, tablet computers, or other devices. The library has books and audiobooks available for download from Libby, Hoopla, Boundless, and Comics Plus. Please do not count computer games or game apps.
Is there an end date for these reading challenges?
Each of the “books before” challenges is an ongoing challenge with no end date. The only requirement is that the challenge is finished before the stated school grade change.
Can my older or younger siblings participate in the program with me?
The challenges are designed for specific age or grade ranges. Other children in your family can participate in the challenge that is specific to their age or grade.