Paws to Read

Registration for the January 2026 Paws to Read in Dunnville and Jarvis Branches opens
 Monday, December 1st.
To register, please visit the library branch

In partnership with Therapeutic Paws of Canada, the Library offers an exciting literacy program designed to help children ages 5 and up who would benefit from extra practice with their reading.

Locations offered: Hagersville Branch, Jarvis Branch and Dunnville Branch. 
Ages: 5 and up.

How it works

Registered children come to the library each week at a pre-scheduled time and read to a certified dog and handler team. Children are encouraged to pick a book or books they enjoy or they think the dog will enjoy and will spend their 15-minute session reading to the specially-trained dog.

Paws to Read dogs provide undivided attention to the children who read aloud, increasing a child’s confidence and boosting self-esteem in those who struggle to read aloud. 

To register call or visit the branch location.

Important program information

  • Registration is extremely limited
  • The program runs over multiple weeks
  • Each reading time slot is 15 minutes
  • Children must bring or choose a library book to read before their session begins to make the most of their scheduled time
  • Sessions run for their allotted timeslot only - extra time will not be provided if a child arrives late
  • Please notify the branch if your child is unable to attend a session

2026 winter sessions

Dunnville Branch

Runs every Thursday from January 15th to February 12th, 2026. 

Timeslots:

  • 3: 45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • 4:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
  • 4:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • 4:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Jarvis Branch

Runs every Monday from January 12th to February 9th, 2025. 

Timeslots:

  • 6:00 pm to 6:15 pm
  • 6:15 pm to 6:30 pm
  • 6:30 pm to 6:45 pm
  • 6:45 pm to 7:00 pm

Hagersville Branch

Check back in January 2026 for Paws to Read dates in our NEW Hagersville Library Branch.

Caledonia Branch

Check back in February 2026 for the dates of the next Paws to Read session in the Caledonia branch.