Literacy is important and libraries are certainly a place you can visit that understands the importance of reading and trying to build lifelong readers at an early age. We try to do our part to foster a love of reading by offering a great collection of books available to be checked out for free, hosting regular storytime sessions to expose youth to children, providing access to phonics tools to strengthen reading skills, and more.
Another unique opportunity we offer from time to time are Read to a Dog Day sessions, and we invite you to participate in our next offering on Tuesday, September 20 at your Main Library (202 Cedar St). These literacy programs are unique in that the library partners with local organizations with registered therapy dogs to bring them into the library for youth to read to and interact with. The purpose of this program is to offer a stress-free atmosphere where youth have the chance to sit down and bond with a dog and practice reading too.
So if your child is struggling with reading, fumbles on a word, or has a difficult time making it through a sentence, it’s okay. That’s because the listening dog is not going to judge that child for making mistakes and will simply be there to listen and offer some encouragement too. Most children seem to naturally love animals, especially dogs, so pairing them together with a reading program offers great motivation.
At this event, we will have several registered therapy dogs in attendance, thanks to Abilene Therapy Dogs, and any child wishing to participate will get the chance to do so. Youth are encouraged to select a book to read, sign-up with staff to be put on the reading rotation, and then when it’s time, go over to meet your canine companion and read to them.
Although these programs do feature some adorable four-legged friends, we do ask that you leave your own furry companions at home. We offered several sessions over the summer, and now’s your chance to catch another event. Be sure to come out to your Main Library on Tuesday, September 20 at 5:00PM and be a part of the literacy event. For more information about this program, contact Ellene Cudd at 325-677-2474. As always, feel free to visit us online to take a look at all of our upcoming programming at www.abilenetx.gov/apl/EventsCal.