Paws to Read

The Temecula Public Library invites young readers-in-training (ages 5-12) to improve their reading skills by reading to a licensed therapy dog.

Purpose
Children read aloud in the privacy of the Story Balloon alleviating the anxiety often associated with reading aloud in front of peers. Young children enjoy being introduced to the magical world of books in this positive, encouraging way. Our canine listeners do not care if the child makes a mistake

Volunteer Teams
The dogs come in all shapes and sizes, have unique personalities, and are gentle with children. Our volunteer teams are certified through organizations such as:
  • Delta Society
  • Love on a Leash
  • Therapy Dogs International
A bulldog with glasses "reads" a book
A small dog with glasses sits at a book
What to Expect
Each 15-minute session will include a child, parent or guardian, a dog handler and a licensed therapy dog. Children read aloud for approximately 10 minutes from a book they have previously selected, followed by a few minutes to interact with the dog and then receive a sticker or bookmark.

Signing Up
Parents must complete a Paws to Read Permission Form and turn it in to the Kids’ Library for the child to participate. Appointments are scheduled for Saturday mornings and are often booked well in advance. Please call 951-693-8980 or visit the library in person to schedule an appointment to read to one of our furry friends.

How to Volunteer
If you and your licensed therapy dog would like to volunteer to assist with our Paws to Read program, please complete a Volunteer Application and return it to the Kids’ Library.

Meet the Paws Team
Paws to Read