Monday evenings, beginning January 9, the Library will offer a new program called Read to the Dogs!

This innovative program pairs young readers with trained dog-and-handler teams. The program helps children develop their reading skills by offering them a relaxed, non-judgmental environment in which to practice reading aloud. In this program, only the dogs may make corrections… and they never offer to.

Reading aloud to dogs: 

• Increases enthusiasm for reading 
• Develops reading skills 
• Teaches children how to interact with animals 
• Promotes confidence

Children register for half-hour sessions at their participating neighborhood library. During the session, the child chooses books from the library shelves and then reads aloud to the dog in a nook of the library. The dog’s handler encourages the child to interact with the dog and may offer reading assistance if the child requests it. At the end of each session, children receive a certificate that will list all the books they read to their animal partner.

Research has also demonstrated that gently petting and talking to animals reduces stress and lowers blood pressure in humans. A well trained, friendly pet can instill a sense of calm, comfort and safety. The dog-and-handler teams are certified Delta Society Pet Partners Teams sponsored by DoveLewis.

Advance registration required!  Sign up at the Service Desk in the Children's Area. Questions? Contact Linda Taylor (503) 992-3327.