Kids

Paws to Read with a Dog

10/01/25 Animals

Beginning or reluctant readers ages 6 – 11 are often invited to read aloud to a registered therapy dog in our libraries – a dog who loves to listen to stories! Children register to read for a 15 minute paws to read session. Reading to a dog is a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence. Children may read from any book they choose.

Event: Paws to Read at West Perry
Date & Time: Thursday, April 02, 5:00pm
Location: West Perry Branch
Description: Young ones who need to practice their reading skills are invited to come read to Daisy, a Yorkshire Terrier therapy dog. Register for a 15 minute reading session by visiting the West Perry branch or calling (317) 275-4390.
No Registration Required.

Event: Paws to Read at Wayne
Date & Time: Saturday, April 04, 11:00am
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: School-aged children who are beginning or reluctant readers are invited to read to a non-judgmental registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. It’s a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence! Please call the branch directly or come in person to register!
No Registration Required.

Event: Paws to Read at Michigan Road
Date & Time: Saturday, April 04, 2:00pm
Location: Michigan Road Branch
Description: Beginning or reluctant readers ages 6-11 are invited to read to a registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. Its a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence. Register for a 15 minute session online or by calling the branch at 317-275-4370 ext. 4.
Register Here

If your child has never tried reading to a dog before and wants to learn a little about what that might be like to attend a paws to read session, listen below to the story, Madeline Finn and the Library Dog. Meet Madeline, who does not like to read. She doesn’t like to read books, magazines, or even the menu on the ice cream truck! Mrs. Dimple, the librarian, suggests Madeline read to a dog, and so Madeline meets Bonnie, who is beautiful, like a big snowy polar bear, and a very good listener! When Madeline can’t get the words right, Bonnie doesn’t mind. Madeline realizes it’s ok to go slow and keep trying.