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1000 Books Before Kindergarten
1000 Books Before Kindergarten is a self-paced early literacy program that encourages families to read at least 1,000 books to their children before they start kindergarten.
Why 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?
Learning to read begins long before a child reaches kindergarten. Reading builds vocabulary and language skills and helps equip children with the skills they need to have for primary education.
It's Achievable!
Preschoolers (ages 0-5) can complete this challenge with the help of family, caregivers, teachers, and librarians. Reading just 3 books a day adds up to 1,095 books in one year. Even at one book a day, you will reach the goal in under three years! Children win prizes for every 100 books read.
Get started by signing up at your local Manatee Library branch.
Service Output: Registration
Hours Available: Registration can be completed at any location during Library hours
Eligibility: Preschool age children (ages 0-5) and their parents
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Unattended Children in the Library
Children ages 11 and under must be accompanied by someone 16 years of age or older in all Manatee Library facilities. The responsibility for the safety and behavior of children in the Library rests with the parent, legal guardian, or caregiver.
Read PostFrequently Asked Questions
To find classes, events, and programs at Manatee Library, visit the Event Calendar. Browse the calendar by scrolling or use the filters and search box on the left of the page.
Not all library programs require registration but many do. If there is availability, you can register by: selecting an event and clicking on Begin Registration button. You will be sent a confirmation email after registration and a reminder email the day before the program begins. If this is an online program, a Zoom link will be included. Stay up to date with all Manatee Library news, programs, and library updates by subscribing to our eNewsletter and following us on social media.
Yes, daycares, schools, assisted living facilities, places of worship, associations, businesses, or other organizations in Manatee County may be eligible for an Organization Library Card, which are only issued by Library Outreach staff.
- Access to borrow all print books, magazines, puzzles, paperback materials, movies, CDs, Library of Things, Kits, and Playaways at all Manatee Library branches
- One year of Library access to be renewed annually by designated contact. May not be used for personal use.
- The organization is financially responsible for all materials checked out on the card.
- Organizations may also request a rotating mini-library collection for their site.
How to register:
- an Organization library card requires an individual to register as a designated contact.
- The designee must complete an Organization Library Card Application, show their photo ID, and provide their business card, badge, letterhead, or other official documentation which indicates their association with the organization, and the organization's contact information.
- Contact Library Outreach staff at library.outreach@mymanatee.org.
Manatee Library locations are open:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday at Lakewood Ranch Library: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday at all other locations: CLOSED
Little Discovery Center is open:
Monday - Friday, by appointment only: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Holiday, emergency, and other library closures are regularly posted. Sign up for the library eNewsletter to receive information about expected closures.