Dogs in public libraries

Focus on dogs and reading

Bark and Read – Kennel Club. “The Bark & Read Foundation has been set up to support and promote the amazing work of charities that take dogs into schools as reading volunteers to help tackle the UK’s literacy problems.” … “Reading to dogs has been proved to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence, through both the calming effect the dogs’ presence has on children and the fact that the dog will listen to the children read without being judgemental or critical. This comforting environment helps to nurture children’s enthusiasm for reading and provides them with the confidence needed to read aloud.”

Librarydogs – A whole website on the benefits of having dogs in libraries. “In 2006 several dogs and their handlers in a suburban Minnesota town participated in a pilot project called PAWSitive Readers. After reading to the dogs just once a week for seven weeks, 10 of the 14 children improved their reading scores at least one grade level. Three of the others were learning English, while another was already reading at grade level. This is just one of many examples of the benefits of programs encouraging children to read aloud to therapy animals. ” See 102 pictures of library dogs here.

“Since Barnstaple Library has been working with the DHK charity, we have been amazed at the impact on children’s reading, especially for those children who need that extra bit of help and support and Dogs Helping Kids have made a big contribution to that impact. We have had many examples of the changes in children, following their reading sessions with the DHK Team, who have improved their literacy skills, increased their achievement at school, dramatically improved their confidence and social skills and generally increased their all-round attentiveness and motivation. We have had some very impressed parents and teachers, who have told us of individual children for whom the sessions have made a world of difference. ” Sharon Dixon, Library Supervisor – Quoted at Dogs Helping Kids

Morecambe dog teaches kids to read – Visitor. “Paul Slater, head teacher at Trumacar Primary School, said the clever canine has made an “incredible difference” to the children. Many Trumacar pupils, who enjoy cuddles with Droopy in the classroom, have nominated him to win the Pets As Therapy (PAT) Dog of the Year.”

My newest member of staff is a dog – but I’m not barking mad – Liverpool Echo. “The hope was that Dexter’s attendance in school would help to support children’s social and emotional well-bring and enhance their learning by promoting positive behaviour and increasing pupils’ confidence in communication and reading. And it is proving to have been an A* idea.”

Paws to Read – Research on benefits of dogs to readers. PawsToRead.com and ‘Paws to Read Month’ were created to connect parents, educators, animal lovers, and child advocates to city, regional, state, and national programs that use shelter cats or trained therapy dogs to improve the literacy skills of children. We also provide tips, activities, and recommended reading lists to help schools and libraries celebrate ‘Paws to Read Month’ in March”

USA – Greyhounds in the Library – Grey2K. “Featuring a live reading from the illustrated book Pele’s Forever Home by Darylynn Ayala, each program is intended to help kids learn to read and to appreciate the beauty of greyhounds.  Gatherings are hosted by volunteers and their greyhounds at local libraries, at community centers or at other favorable locations.  Information is provided about local adoption opportunities, and each child receives a free book and a “Save the Greyhounds” wristband to take home.  ”

USA – Libraries Invite Dogs to Storytime – SLJ. “Libraries are starting to leverage kids’ natural affection for dogs. Here are three libraries that have really gotten resourceful with having man’s best friend help children focus on reading. Young patrons are able to engage with animals in a way that is beneficial for all concerned.”