'Bark'-ing up the right tree with Paws to Read

Teah reads to our newest Paws to Read dog, Hattie.

Looking for a way to encourage your kid to read? If they like dogs, then Paws to Read at Mentor Library is the perfect program for them.

Paws to Read pairs young readers (between the ages of six and 12 years old) with therapy dogs, who listen to the children as they read.

The dogs make an ideal audience—supportive and adorable—and all they ask for in return is the occasional ear scratch.

Claire touches Kody's paw as she reads to her about Horrible Harry.

Registration for our next sessions start Aug. 5. There will be two 30-minute sessions on Aug. 19 at our Main Branch; one beginning at 6:30 p.m., the next at 7 p.m. We only have so many therapy dogs; so, unfortunately, there’s a limit on how many kids can participate each month.

Furthermore, those spots tend to fill up fast, so contact the children’s department at Mentor Public Library soon if you think you child would enjoy Paws to Read.

Diva listens as Braden reads to her about the president.

By the way, there’s still time to join the more than 1,400 kids who have signed up for our summer reading program.

For every hour a child reads or is read to, they receive a raffle ticket that can help them win one of dozens of cool prizes—from telescopes and microscopes to Lego sets and Superhero Barbie. The more someone reads, the better chance they have of winning.

If a child reads 20 hours by Aug. 1, they will be entered into a special raffle to win one of two $50 gift certificates from Toys ‘R Us.

Mentor Library also has a summer reading program (and prizes) for teens and adults, as well. For more information about summer reading, call 440-255-8811 or visit Mentor Library’s website.

Ruckus and Taylor share a good book.

You can find more Paws to Read photos on Mentor Library's Facebook page.