Bookworms reach remarkable milestone with Snowy Monaro Regional Library program

Two young Snowy Monaro Regional Library card holders have reached a significant early childhood literacy milestone, having been read 1,000 books before they start school as part of the library’s 1000 Books Before School initiative. 

The milestone is even sweeter for library staff, with the two children having reached this goal in just under 12 months, following the launch of the program in January 2024.

1000 Books Before School encourages families to read regularly with their children, laying a strong foundation for literacy and learning. Research shows that reading to children every day significantly boosts their cognitive development and reading skills, setting them up for success in school and beyond.

“The team is so excited about our first two little readers to reach the 1000 book milestone,” Cheryl Smith, Coordinator Library Services with Snowy Monaro Regional Council said, congratulating the children and their families for their commitment to literacy and to the program. 

More than 20 families across the Snowy Monaro have taken advantage of the program which is a free, easy and simple way to boost their young child’s literacy skills ahead of starting school.

Participants receive a starter pack with a 50-book reading log and a milestone map. Each completed log earns stickers, bookmarks, and new logs, with special certificates awarded for reaching 1000 books.

‘It’s so inspiring to see these children fall in love with reading and watch their confidence grow as they progress,” Ms Smith added. 

“I hope other families in the region take up the challenge in 2025 and we can celebrate even more big achievements next year.”

The program is open to all families with children who haven’t started school yet. Reading just one book a day would see children meet the 1,000 book milestone in three years, while reading three books a day would see children meet the goal in less than a year. 

Toddlers who are read to daily go on to perform better in both literacy and numeracy, with benefits that last well into adulthood. Programs like 1000 Books Before School can help close the literacy gap between regional and urban Australia, giving all children the best possible start to their education.

For more information about 1000 Books Before School, email [email protected], or phone 1300 345 345.