1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Join our reading readiness program designed to expose children to an assortment of classic stories that will help them on their journey to become independent readers! Sign up online or in person at the Youth Reference desk.

The program is ongoing throughout the year, so you may start any time. Periodically, as children accomplish listening milestones they will be invited to special parties at the library to celebrate their achievement!

This program is designed to encourage parents and caregivers to read at least 1000 books to children from birth to kindergarten.

If you have any questions, please contact the Youth Reference department at children@samuelslibrary.net or 540.635.3153 ext. 106. Follow this link for more information on using Beanstack.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten logo

Events for Ages 5 & Under

  • Toddler Story Time

    Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 
    10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ & Under


    Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with Friendship stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft. Siblings welcome.

  • Preschool Story Time

    Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 
    11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ - 5


    Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with Friendship stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft.

  • Grand Story Time

    Thursday, February 12th, 2026 
    10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 6 & Under


    Come hear a grandparent read a few stories, learn nursery rhymes, and do a craft.

  • Toddler Story Time

    Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 
    10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ & Under


    Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with 5 Senses stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft. Siblings welcome.

  • Preschool Story Time

    Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 
    11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ - 5


    Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with 5 Senses stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft.

  • Grand Story Time

    Thursday, February 19th, 2026 
    10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 6 & Under


    Come hear a grandparent read a few stories, learn nursery rhymes, and do a craft.

  • Music & Movement: Babies

    Monday, February 23rd, 2026 
    10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 23 Months & Under


    Join our fun and joyful time with your little ones as we listen to music while learning some basic movements and multisensory activities designed to delight your baby or toddler.

  • Music & Movement: Toddlers & Preschool

    Monday, February 23rd, 2026 
    11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 2 - 5


    Join our fun and joyful time with your little ones as we listen to music while learning some basic movements and multisensory activities designed to delight your baby or toddler.

  • Toddler Story Time

    Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 
    10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ & Under


    Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with Arctic Animal stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft. Siblings welcome.

  • Read with the Sheriff Preschool Story Time

    Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 
    11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 3½ - 5


    This week we will have a special guest from the Sheriff’s office! Come in for an enjoyable hour filled with Arctic Animal stories, exciting sing-alongs, finger plays, and a craft.

  • Grand Story Time

    Thursday, February 26th, 2026 
    10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
    In-Person Event
    Ages 6 & Under


    Come hear a grandparent read a few stories, learn nursery rhymes, and do a craft.