Many libraries across the United States and Canada have implemented programs where certified therapy dogs visit libraries to listen to children read. The idea of incorporating therapy dogs into public library reading initiatives stems from research showing how animal companionship positively impacts mental health, emotional well-being, and learning outcomes in children.
These programs may trace their roots to the R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) program, founded in 1999 by New York Therapy Animals in partnership with Intermountain Therapy Animals, the New York City Department of Education, and local libraries. Since then, libraries nationwide have adopted similar models to encourage reluctant or struggling readers and to create safe, welcoming literacy environments.
Research supports these efforts. A 2010 study from the University of California, Davis confirmed that children who read to dogs increased their reading fluency by 12% over a 10-week period, while peers who did not read to dogs showed no improvement. Therapy dog programs attract diverse participants - reluctant readers, children with anxiety, special needs, or learning differences - and foster an inclusive, nonjudgmental space for literacy growth.
This panel presentation will highlight how public libraries in Western New York have implemented therapy dog reading programs and will showcase program outcomes, best practices, and strategies for establishing similar initiatives in other communities.
