Read to Luna!

At the Great Bend Public Library, we are proud to be part of the Pet Partners program. Since 2018, Glenn Schraeder and Luna the Bernese mountain dog have been helping children learn to love reading by helping grow their confidence. Luna is a therapy dog who has been trained to lay quietly and patiently with children while they read to her. What makes Luna so special is not only does she always have a happy and inviting demeanor but she will never correct the kids on a wrong word and doesn't mind if they read slowly or struggle with words. She just offers a furry ear for kids who want to practice their reading. Many children are afraid or dislike reading out loud, but often times when they see that gentle furry giant all it takes to get them reading is to tell them Luna would love to hear a story and before you know it they’re siting on the ground next to Luna reading happily. 


It is a proven fact that children today are much less inclined to read for fun, yet those who read just twenty minutes each day set themselves up for much greater success in the future. Reading exposes children to new vocabulary, helps them score better in standardized tests and puts them ahead in school. Reading can also make them better writers. Some studies have even shown reading can help children develop empathy, by helping them to consider the character's actions motivations, and feelings. And lastly reading helps children develop there imagination and creativity. Luna helps get children who may not enjoy reading foster confidence and learn to love reading for fun, ultimately exposing them to a myriad of benefits. Currently Luna cand be found at the library on Thursdays this November from 3:30 to 5:00 P.M. Why not stop by and read her a story?