At Johnson County Library, reading aloud is easier when a furry, loyal listener curls up beside you.
The R.E.A.D. to a Pet program invites young readers to sit with a book and a therapy animal, building literacy skills in a setting that trades tension for a wagging tail. The dogs don’t interrupt or correct. They offer quiet company.
“We love dogs because their affection for us is unconditional, and that makes therapy dogs particularly magical partners for new or reluctant readers,” said Program Coordinator Carrie Worth.
The sessions are part of Reading Education Assistance Dogs, known as R.E.A.D., a national effort that pairs children with certified therapy animals for one‑on‑one reading time. It's meant to help kids build confidence and strengthen skills. Animal‑handler teams volunteer their time and often receive R.E.A.D. training before working in libraries, schools and care settings.
A pet adoption tale
One family arrived with a child who was timid around dogs, even as siblings lobbied to have one at home. After a few visits, the child began reading aloud and eventually felt comfortable around the animals. The family later adopted one of the dogs and still returns to visit the others. Reading to a puppy, Worth noted, is not always easy.
A younger sibling story
Younger siblings often begin as observers, tucked on a parent’s lap while an older child reads. Even when invited to make up a story, they hold back.
“I have seen these younger children slowly become more comfortable sharing their stories and ‘pretend’ read books to the pets after a couple of visits,” Worth said. “Storytelling is as important as practicing reading when it comes to confidence building.”
A teen connection
During one session at Blue Valley Library, a group of high school seniors paused their studying to ask what was happening. Minutes later, they were on the floor, reading to two dogs and a cat named Leo.
“R.E.A.D. not only helps children build confidence in their reading skills – it also helps teens and adults find the joy and simplicity in reading,” Worth said.
How it works
Children take a ticket when they arrive, then check in with Library staff and choose a book from home or the shelves. They spend a few minutes reading with an animal partner. Some visit once. Others loop back through the line to meet each animal in the room.
For families who can't attend, Worth offers a reminder: many already live with a listener.
“It always surprises me how many kids and adults come to the program and say they have a cat or a dog at home, and it never occurred to them to try it there,” she said.
Upcoming sessions
Monday, March 30
4:45 to 6 p.m., Corinth Library
Monday, April 6
6 to 7:15 p.m., Merriam Plaza Library
Monday, April 20
2 to 3:15 p.m., Leawood Pioneer Library
Step into a session and experience how a calm companion can turn reading into something joyful and confidence-boosting. For accessibility or accommodation questions, contact ask@jocolibrary.org. Learn more at jocolibrary.org.
