MONTAGUE — “Paws to Read,” a children’s literary education program assisted by two furry helpers at Montague Public Libraries, has been met with “very good” reception thus far, according to Youth Services Librarian Angela Rovatti-Leonard.
The series, which began on the first day of February, brings in comfort dogs to accompany young readers as they engage with children’s books at the library. The Montague Public Libraries website explains this program can result in “improved reading skills,” “a sense of pride in their accomplishments,” “willingness to become involved in other positive activities,” “increased respect and kindness in their interactions with animals” and “greater reading enjoyment” for children.
“This is a feel-good program,” Rovatti-Leonard summarized during a “Paws to Read” session last week at the Carnegie Public Library.
Rovatti-Leonard said while “it took a little bit for people to sign up” as the series began, each event has been fully booked with reservations in the time since.
Montague resident Lindsey Spencer, who reserved time slots for two of her children to read, said the program was a perfect match for what her daughter had wanted to try.
“My daughter, Ava, had read in the back of one of her books about reading to dogs and she wanted to do it,” she explained.
Spencer endorsed the idea, reasoning that such a program might help children feel more comfortable as they learn.
“I think it’s something that’s non-judgmental and helps them open up to read,” she said.
“Sometimes, a program like this can make children more confident,” Rovatti-Leonard added.
During and after her reservation, Spencer’s daughter, Ava-Leigh Grader, 9, was enamored with 7-year-old Golden Retriever J-Lo, the comfort dog present.
“It was pretty fun. Short, but fun,” Ava-Leigh said after she read. “Maybe a little less paying attention (than reading without a dog).”
Spencer’s son, JJ Grader, 7, also had a reservation and echoed his sister’s sentiment.
“I really liked it,” he said.
J-Lo’s owner, Bernardston resident Corlene Porter, said the feeling is mutual.
“Obviously, she likes it,” Porter said of the dog relaxed at her side. “She loves kids.”
Porter said she has observed J-Lo having a “real calming effect on people” and expressed gratitude for what she and J-Lo have provided to children in the community.
“We just have a good time doing it,” she said. “I just love listening to the kids read. They’re amazing.”
Interested families can make 15-minute reservations at the Carnegie Public Library for the first Tuesday of each month with Rio, and the third Thursday of each month, both between 4 and 5 p.m. with J-Lo. The “Paws to Read” program also comes to the Montague Center Public Library on the first Wednesday of each month between 4 and 5 p.m. Call 413-863-3214 to make a reservation. Rovatti-Leonard said Montague Public Libraries will consider extending the program to the Millers Falls Library as well.
Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-772-0261, ext. 261 or jmendoza@recorder.com.