Of course they can’t. But they can be great listeners. The R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) program improves children’s reading and communication skills by having them read to a dog. Dogs are non-judgmental participants that patiently listen as children read to them. This is a proven method to build confidence in children while improving reading, social, and communication skills. These special dogs are registered therapy dogs that, with their owners/handlers are visiting libraries across the United States and Canada. The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library's first R.E.A.D. program begins in January 2007.

A Dog's Favorite Library Books

Walter’s Tail by Lisa Campbell Ernst

How Fletcher Was Hatched by Wende Devlin

Cliff Hanger by Jean Craighead George

Biscuit Finds a Friend by Alyssa Satin Capucilli

Henry and Ribsy by Beverly Cleary

Sable by Karen Hesse

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

Hank the Cowdog books by John R. Erickson

Seaman: the dog who explored the west with Lewis and Clark by Gail Karwoski

Irish Red by Jim Kjelgaard