For Immediate Release: July 5, 2007

"Oakland Paws To Read” Brings Canine Friends
To Lakeview Branch Library

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(Oakland, CA)— Hey kids! Want to im prove your reading skills with the help of a furry friend? The Lakeview Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 550 El Embarcadero, is launching a seven-week pilot program, “Paws to Read,” which brings gentle therapy dogs to the library on Thursdays beginning July 12 through August 23, 2007. Kids entering grades one through seven can sign up for a 20-minute time slot to read to Franklin, Cookiescraps or another friendly dog from 3:30-5:00 p.m. It’s good practice, and kids can count the minutes to earn Summer Reading Game prizes, too!

Ja-Lih Lee, Children’s Services Coordinator, says that studies have shown that reading with trained therapy dogs can im prove a child’s self-esteem and confidence, as well as encourage a child to read more. “Dogs are friendly, supportive and non-judgmental, and provide a great incentive for kids to visit their local library.”

The dogs and volunteers are being provided by TherapyPets, a non profit, all-volunteer group that facilitates animal-assisted therapy, bringing animals to nursing homes, hospitals and other facilities to enrich the lives of children and adults. TherapyPets is based in Oakland, California.

To sign up for a time slot or for further information, please call (510) 238-7344. Please refrain from wearing scented products. To request sign inter pretation or other accommodation, call the number above or (510) 834-7446 (TTY) at least five working days prior to the event. The Oakland Public Library is a department of the City of Oakland.

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