If you are looking for a well-organized program aimed at encouraging families to read with their young children, please read on. As one of the libraries that helped to develop this program, we are thrilled with the results! All seven of the libraries in Barry County are participating . . . and our families are benefiting! We launched the program in the spring and are now having kids finish. Feel free to contact me with questions. "The concept of encouraging parents to read 1000 books to children before kindergarten is widely accepted as a way to prepare children for elementary school. The Jr. RangerLand "Explore 1000 Books" makes this journey fun and easy for parents. This beautifully illustrated book was designed and developed with the help of a terrific group of librarians from Barry County, Michigan. They worked as a group to put together helpful reading tips and meaningful quotes to expand this journal into a reading tool. There are opportunities throughout the book for children to draw pictures and practice writing their name, making this a keepsake long after the completion of the program. This reading exploration journal is available for retail purchase in our online store or in special bulk quantities for use in libraries." For more information, visit this website . . . especially designed for public librarians! http://www.jr-rangerland.com/1000%20books/RangerLand%20explore%201000%20book... I'm also glad to answer any questions you might have about our program locally. Shauna Lea Swantek, Director Putnam District Library Honoring the Past, Serving Today, Preparing For Tomorrow www.putnamlib.org 327 North Main Street PO Box 920 Nashville, MI 49073-9578 Phone & Fax: (517)852-9723