Tri-County libraries celebrate Trident United Way’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten

Trident United Way, Berkeley County Library System, Charleston County Public Library and Dorchester County Library are partnering to promote reading to children from birth to age five and improve regional literacy gaps.

Kick-off celebrations were held at four libraries in the Tri-County to mark the initiative. Parents and kids came together to share the joy of reading, while also learning more about community service resources along with some fun and games for the kids.

“Reading is more than just sitting down and being quiet, it can be exciting, they’re having a great time, both of them at the different ages, incorporating the different things like dance and play with reading and words, it’s just a fantastic time and we appreciate the opportunity, said parent Eva Smith who attended the opening celebration in North Charleston.

Kick off celebrations touched all parts of the Tri-County, with events at libraries in Moncks Corner, North Charleston, St. George and Summerville.

In Berkeley County, the program is vital to reach kids and families who may not be regular library users.

“The Berkeley County Library System is excited to collaborate with Trident United Way and neighboring library systems on the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, said Gene Brunson, Berkeley County Library System Director. “Studies have shown the positive impact of reading for 15 minutes per day. Parents and children can enjoy the benefits of reading, spending quality time, and developing early literacy skills and school readiness by participating in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.”

Click this link below to register online.
https://www.tuw.org/tricountyreadunited

The two-step process involves signing up with Trident United Way, then connecting with the library system in your given county to register and receive more information.

This partnership is crucial to boost reading development, which as stats show, is critically needed in our region.

During birth to 5 age range, 90% of a child’s brain development occurs.

• 57% of Tri-County children are deemed “not ready” when starting Kindergarten
• More than half of Tri-County third graders are not reading at grade level.

“The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program not only teaches children the joys of reading but is also a fun way for parents and caregivers to bond with their children as they share in this experience with them,” said Charleston County Public Library Children’s System Coordinator Jackie Peters. “We are thrilled to partner with Trident United Way and the other library systems to help families put their child on the path to success through this great program.”

This partnership aims to impact Tri-County children’s literacy skills beginning from birth through the years they walk into kindergarten so we may also impact the future skill base of our Tri-County workforce.

“We understand to deliver a competitive workforce for the future, it will take a united effort now to put Tri-County children on the path to success,” said Angela Reynolds, Trident United Way Education Director. “We had an exciting kick-off event and can’t wait to see the program grow as the school year progresses.”