Paws To Read at the Livermore Library

Dogs aren't only man's best friend, they are amazing listeners. That's what children learned last Fall while participating in the Paws 2 Read program at the Civic Center Library. Based on studies which show that reading with trained therapy dogs can improve a child's self-esteem and confidence, as well as encourage a child to read more, Paws 2 Read has proven to be very popular with youngsters perfecting their reading skills. Seventy-four (74) children participated in the first series of six Paws 2 Read sessions, all giving it rave reviews.

At a time when budget challenges have made it difficult for the Livermore Public Library to add new programs, Paws 2 Read has been a successful community effort. The Friends of the Livermore Library provided $700 to purchase the supplies needed to start the program; Valley Humane Society provided volunteers in the form of trained therapy dogs and their owners; and a volunteer from the Leadership Livermore Alumni Network helped Library staff coordinate the various program elements. Overall, volunteers worked more than 100 hours in organizing the program, getting the supplies, and holding the program sessions.

Due to its initial success and the continuing help of volunteers, a second series of Paws 2 Read programs will be held from January 20th through March 10th. The programs will take place at the Civic Center Library on Wednesday evenings with two 25-minute sessions offered between 7 and 8 p.m. Participating children should not be fearful of dogs or have allergies to pets. For more information or to register a child for the program, please call the Livermore Public Library's Children's Desk at 925-373-5500, ext. 5504.

Read the Paws To Read flyer.

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