Early literacy (reading and writing) does not mean early reading instruction or teaching babies to read; it is the natural development of skills through the enjoyment of books, the importance of positive interactions between babies and parents, and the critical role of literacy-rich experiences.
 

Literacy development begins at birth and is closely linked to a baby’s earliest experiences with books and stories. Babies learn language through social literacy experiences - parents and caregivers interacting with them using books. Whether babies and toddlers are listening to your voice, soaking up the language, focusing on the pictures, or just learning how to turn pages, they are learning the basics. These experiences also serve to associate books with parental affection, attention, and approval.  (American Library Association)

It's important to have lots of books around the house, but especially important to have ones that will grab your baby's attention. These are the kinds of books that we provide at birth!