Readers & Waggers helps young readers build confidence through a unique literacy program
For kids who feel nervous reading out loud, Plano Public Library offers a heartwarming solution: an audience that listens patiently and never judges.
The Readers & Waggers program at Haggard Library invites elementary-aged children to practice reading aloud to certified therapy dogs. The relaxed setting helps young readers build confidence, strengthen literacy skills and discover the joy of reading in a supportive environment.
The program is a collaboration between Plano Public Library and Love on a Leash, a national nonprofit that provides trained therapy dogs for community programs.
A Comfortable Space For Young Readers
Readers & Waggers is designed to create a calm and encouraging space where children can practice reading without the pressure of performing in front of classmates or adults.
Therapy dogs provide a gentle and attentive presence, allowing kids to read at their own pace. For many children, reading to a dog removes the anxiety they might feel when reading in front of people.
The program has become a favorite for families looking for fun ways to strengthen literacy skills while building confidence.
How The Program Works
Readers & Waggers is designed for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Kids take turns reading aloud to therapy dogs while their handlers stay nearby. The environment is intentionally low-pressure, helping children focus on the story rather than worrying about mistakes. Participants can bring a favorite book from home or choose one from the library shelves before their reading session begins.
Therapy Dogs With Special Training
The dogs participating in Readers & Waggers are certified through Love on a Leash, a nonprofit organization that connects trained therapy dogs with programs across the country.
Unlike typical pets, therapy dogs must complete training and evaluations to ensure they remain calm, patient and comfortable in environments like libraries, schools and hospitals. Their quiet presence helps children relax, making reading feel less like a task and more like a shared experience.
Encouraging A Love Of Reading
Programs like Readers & Waggers highlight how creative approaches can make literacy more engaging for young readers.
By pairing books with the comfort of therapy animals, Plano Public Library offers a memorable experience that helps kids build confidence and develop a lifelong love of reading.
For families looking to give their child a gentle reading confidence boost, Readers & Waggers offers a simple but powerful opportunity, one page and one wagging tail at a time.
Readers & Waggers
Location: Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano
Program: Readers & Waggers (Grades K–5)
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Upcoming Dates: March 14 and April 11
Tickets: Free, but required. Pick up in person at the library 30 minutes before the program begins.
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