Therapy dogs coming to Franklin Library

From staff reports

The Franklin Public Library has partnered with Paws 4 A Cause to provide a unique reading program for school age children from the area. Beginning Saturday, children may stop into the library and have a one-on-one reading session with a friendly, attentive, and certified therapy dog.

These dogs are trained to be great listeners. Having a child read to them can be motivating and confidence boosting. This is a perfect opportunity for children who are reluctant readers or are struggling with their reading development. The dogs help create a comfortable environment that removes much of the performance pressure kids may feel.

The first session is scheduled from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday at the Franklin Public Library, 421 12th Street. It is part of a six-week series and will run through February and March, with both evening and weekend times available.

Other sessions will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 Saturdays, Feb. 19 and March 5, and from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 9, Feb. 23, and March 9 at the Franklin Public Library.

The sessions are free and open to the public. No registration necessary. Children who attend all sessions will receive a certificate and prize.

For more information, people can call the Franklin Library at (814) 432-5062, follow the library’s Facebook page @orlalibraries or visit www.pawsvenango.com.