Today was the pilot reading session of the See Spot Read program. It was held at Green Road Library from 10 am until noon, with the enthusiastic participation and support of Avis Jones, Youth Services Librarian.


The handler teams in attendance were Rebecca with Freddie, and Susan with Moby. We arrived shortly before 10 am to find the children's area set up, with appropriate books from the reading list displayed. Susan and I set out our blankets, had the dogs lay down and awaited our first readers.


We did not wait long. Our first readers came into the area and were ready and eager to read to the dogs. Because we had enough time, each of these two read first to one dog and then to the other. The switching worked well.


About 40 minutes into the session, we took the dogs outside for a quick potty break and drink of water. By the time we returned, there were two more readers waiting for a chance. They also read first to one dog, then switched and read to the other.


Several kids and parents came by to watch and see what was going on with dogs in the library, but we did not really experience any interruptions. We heard several people ask how often we did this program, and we explained that this was the first time and that we hoped to repeat it monthly. I think that it will take a little time to take off as people learn about it gradually.


We met several kids of all ages (from toddler to about 12) who were not willing (or able) to read to the dogs, but who wanted to pet the dogs and enjoyed the interaction with them anyway.


Our last two "readers" were a kindergartner and his 4 year old younger brother. Neither could read, but the older boy turned pages in the books and made up the story as he went along to tell the dogs. He was very excited and it was just great to see him enjoy the concept of reading even though he couldn't quite do it yet. I ended up reading a short book to the two boys and Freddie, which was just fine with everyone.


I got the impression that the kids really enjoyed the experience. Both Freddie and Moby were interactive while remaining calm (and at some points a bit comatose). Overall, the kids were comfortable and attracted to the dogs and eager to read to them. They also responded positively to our guidance, corrections and suggestions during their reading.


Overall, Susan, Avis and I all thought it went really well. We all came away feeling like it was fun and that everyone had a good time. We also felt like people were interested in the idea and willing to come back and give it a try. I'll be following up with Avis to get her impressions and to schedule another date.