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HARRISON, N.Y. - Programs at the Harrison Public Library are about to get a little scruffier. The library will introduce a new event Saturday in which local children can practice their reading with therapy dogs in order to build confidence.
Library Director Galina Chernykh sought help from friend Tom Cook, who will facilitate the program and provide the pets. Cook's pet Angie will be all ears Saturday morning for the first of many dog therapy programs at the downtown library.
"I'm looking forward to it," Cook said. "Angie was groomed last weekend and will be extra fluffy."
The first "Tail Waggin' Tutors" program, scheduled for Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon, will be the first time the library works with therapy dogs and Chernykh said she hopes it could make learning to read more fun.
"We're very excited about the Tail Waggin' Tutors program," Chernykh said. "We wanted to start this sooner rather than later."
Kids will have the chance to practice their reading to Angie for up to five minutes, with a few minutes leftover for some one-on-one playtime with the dog. Chernkyh said that by practicing their reading skills in front of a dog, children would have an easier time building confidence and enjoy reading.
The one-hour program is on a first come, first serve basis and there will be a sign-up at the door of the library. Chernkyh said the program would run every other Saturday at 11 a.m. in Harrison.
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