Molly Denton is not even 3 years old and is already learning to read — thanks to “1000 Books Before Kindergarten,” a national program spearheaded locally by the Bryan + College Station Friends of the Public Library System. “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” helps children succeed in school by encouraging caregivers to read 1,000 books to a child before kindergarten. So far, Molly has finished 1,500 books, and her 8-month-old sister, Jenna has completed 250.
“I believe all the reading has definitely enhanced her vocabulary and development in general,” says Molly’s mom, Marisa Denton. According to Marisa, Molly has memorized some of the pages from her books and will repeat verbatim what is written. “Molly will also read to Jenna,” Marisa says. “She will sit and turn the pages and tell a story to Jenna. She will also open her books and read to herself or her dolls.” Among her favorite books are Curious George and Clifford the Big Red Dog.
The Denton family loves the program, Marisa says, including her husband, John, who also reads to the girls at bedtime. “We are so grateful for the library and being able to show Molly and Jenna how much fun reading is and everything you can learn.”
The Bryan + College Station Friends of the Public Library System was established in 1955 to promote the public libraries and encourage citizens to use its many and varied services. The nonprofit provided 100 backpacks for “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” that were numbered and stuffed with 10 books each. Between the start of the program last May 2020 and mid-January 2021, the backpacks have circulated 1,302 times — more than 10 times per backpack. Busy parents really appreciate the time-saving aspects of the program, says Michelle Bond, children’s librarian at Larry J. Ringer Public Library in College Station. She also notes that studies have shown that a child’s IQ can be raised by two points just by reading to them. According to Michelle, the backpacks are in constant demand, and they need more.
“1000 Books Before Kindergarten” is one of many programs offered by the three system libraries: Larry J. Ringer in College Station and Clara B. Mounce and the Carnegie Center of Brazos Valley History in Bryan. The programs — from reading and special activities for children, teens, and adults to book clubs, writing contests and virtual games — have proved especially popular during the pandemic. “Without the funds from the Friends many of these programs would not be possible,” says Library Director Bea Saba.
Book sales helped fund many of the libraries’ projects prior to COVID-19 but have been put on hold due to the pandemic. The Friends hope to bring back the Young Readers book sale at the Ringer Library in late August and at the Mounce Library in the fall. At the moment, however, the FOL relies on member contributions, which are more important than ever to keep programs running.
To this end, the Bryan + College Station Friends of the Public Library System has begun its annual membership drive. Student memberships are $10, individual memberships are $25, and family memberships are $60. Life memberships range from $300 for individual members to $350 for businesses. Contributors can opt to choose a program they want to support, and members receive an annual newsletter and are entitled to early entry at the book sales. “The library system is a wonderful asset to our community, and, with your continued financial support, we will continue to work to make enhancements,” says Membership Chairman Donna Pohl. To join, renew a membership, or make a contribution, visit friendsbcs.org.
