1000 Books Before Grade One

1000 Books Before Grade One is a fun, national reading program offered by many libraries across Canada. The Guelph Public Library now offers this year-round, self-paced challenge to help families build strong early literacy skills from birth until children start Grade One. All reading counts, whether it is books, audiobooks, or stories in any language, and tracking progress helps motivate young readers. Children can also join the Summer Reading Club at the same time, with reading counting toward both programs. Completed logs earn small prizes along the way, with a final certificate and prize at the Main Library. Library staff are always happy to recommend books or create custom Book Bundles to support your child’s reading journey.

Explore together

How it works

Participating is easy!

  1. Pick up your reading log from any Guelph Public Library location or print one here. Each log has space to track 100 books.
  2. Read and listen to books with your child. Every book, whether read by you, a family member, or an audiobook, counts! Simply check off a circle on the reading log for each book read.
  3. When you complete a log, bring it in to any library location to get a small reward and pick up your next log. You’ll need to complete 10 logs to reach your goal of 1,000 books.
  4. Reach 1,000 books read! When you finish your final log, bring it in to the Children’s Department at the Main Library to receive a certificate of completion, a special prize, and an invitation to be featured on our “Reading Wall of Fame”!

Early literacy tips

Early literacy tips

Discover how sharing books turns simple moments into joyful stories, early learning, and lasting memories.

Book bundles for children

Save yourself some time and have library staff select your next bundle of books!

Contact us

519-824-6220
Back to Top