Babies born in Broome County can get a head start on reading before they even leave the hospital.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar announced details for the Baby’s First Book program Tuesday at the George F Johnson Library in Endicott.

Every baby born at Lourdes or UHS Hospitals will receive the children’s book “Baby Cakes,” written by Karma Wilson.

The initiative aims to get parents to read to their kids at an early age.

SUNY Broome’s Center for Civic Engagement Coordinator Lisa Strahley came up with the idea.

“The book is adorable in setting that stage.  It talks about “Babycakes, Babycakes, I love you. Kiss my little Babycakes on the nose, kiss my little Babycakes on the toes.  It’s those simple interactions that make the difference,” said Strahley.

In addition to the book, kids will receive a bag to carry it in which also includes resource information from the United Way and the addresses for all of the libraries in the Four County System.

Hundreds of books have already been delivered to area hospitals.