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500 Books Before Middle School
500 Books Before Middle School is a fun and rewarding reading challenge that encourages elementary students to read 500 books before starting middle school. Any type of book counts—picture books, chapter books, even graphic novels—and kids can earn fun milestones as they go.
Why 500 Books Before Middle School?
Reading early and often helps children build strong literacy skills, boosts confidence, and sets them up for success in school and beyond. This challenge motivates kids to make reading a daily habit during their most important years of learning.
It's Achievable!
With support from families and the flexibility to read any kind of book, kids can steadily work toward the goal at their own pace. Logging progress is simple, and celebrating milestones along the way keeps the experience exciting and motivating.
Get started on the Beanstack app!
Service Output: Registration
Hours Available: Register at any time on the Beanstack app.
Eligibility: Children (ages 6-12) 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 [email protected].
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.