Children invited to library for doggy reading scheme

Read2Dogs was recently launched at Selby library with two rescue dogs from Serbia who act as therapy dogs with their owners.

Malton library has decided to follow suit with Rosie the black Labrador.

The sessions which start on Tuesday, February 25 will be held each Tuesday for six weeks.

They will run from 5pm to 6pm and customers can book a ten-minute slot with Rosie. If they prove popular, the library hopes to make them a regular feature.

One mother brings her daughter to the sessions at Selby because she has selective autism and a possible social communication disorder.

She said: “She had never read aloud to anyone other than close family members at home.

“At first she settled down next to one of the dogs on the floor and started off whispering to him as she read.

“The longer she stroked him she relaxed and grew in confidence and by the end of the book she was reading aloud.

“I feel this service is so important for anyone who struggles to read aloud, especially for those with special educational needs and disabilities as they face challenges which can be hard to overcome.

“I feel really confident that my daughter will make great progress reading regularly to the dogs. Thank you very much for providing this essential service.”

County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, added: “Read2Dogs is another example of how libraries across North Yorkshire are leading the way with finding inclusive and innovative activities to boost a child’s confidence.

“We’ve had children of all abilities come along and improve their skills by reading to such friendly dogs.

“I would urge parents to bring their children to a session and see what Rosie can do for them.

“It’s amazing to think that something so simple can make such a huge difference.”

To book your place email [email protected] or contact Malton library on 01609 534565.