photo by: Ashley Hocking

The Lawrence Public Library launched a pre-Kindergarten reading program that aims for young readers to finish 1,000 books before entering kindergarten. Books are pictured at the library, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018.

The Lawrence Public Library wants children in the community to begin reading as early as possible and has started an ambitious program to that end.

The library recently announced a book program that aims for young readers to finish 1,000 books before entering kindergarten.

To kick off the program, the library will host a launch party at 3:30 p.m. Sept. 9. The launch party will allow parents and young readers to sign up for the program, learn ways they can reach the 1,000-book goal and participate in a read-aloud event with other guests.

Karen Allen, youth services coordinator, said the program aimed to help parents and guardians focus on literacy enrichment during an important part of a child’s brain development.

Allen said some benefits of early-childhood reading are language learning, continued development of motor skills and spending quality family time together. Additionally, encouraging children to read at a young age can foster a lifelong love for reading.

“The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages families to explore the world of books, grow as readers and have fun together,” said Jenny Cook, children’s librarian and program organizer.

photo by: Ashley Hocking

Librarian Jenny Cook holds a book log for the pre-Kindergarten reading program, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, at the Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont St.

While 1,000 books may sound daunting, Allen noted that most children’s books can be read within five minutes. Any book read to the child also counts toward the goal, she said.

“As soon as you start reading to your kid, as soon as they are born, every single word you speak toward your child counts toward their early literacy skills,” she said.

Readers who participate in the program will be able to track their progress with colorful book logs, which are currently available at the library.

Allen said the program came with the extra incentive of winning prizes. Prizes include a Lawrence Public Library tote bag after finishing 500 books and a free book and a bumper sticker at 1,000 books. The library will also host a “finishers party” annually for families who complete the program.

“Kids feel pride about reaching their goals, and that surrounds books and reading with even more positivity,” Allen said.

Those who are interested in the program may find out more at the library’s website.

photo by: Ashley Hocking

The Lawrence Public Library has launched a new program that aims for young readers to finish 1,000 books before entering kindergarten. Logs for the program are pictured at the library, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018.