Dog Ears reading program expands to Orchard Mesa and Collbran branches

Dog Ears, a children’s reading program at several Mesa County Libraries locations, is expanding to the Orchard Mesa and Collbran branches this year.

Dog Ears lets children read individually to specially trained therapy dogs for 15 minutes uninterrupted. Kids who get frustrated or feel uncomfortable while reading often relax and enjoy reading more when they get to read to a dog.

All of the dog volunteers are certified through a therapy dog organization such as Therapy Dogs Unlimited. At Dog Ears, the dogs’ handlers often help kids with their reading; for example, they help kids sound out difficult-to-pronounce words.

• The first monthly Dog Ears event at the Orchard Mesa Branch, 230 Lynwood St., is scheduled for 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24. The number of openings is limited, and those interested in participating should pre-register by calling the Orchard Mesa Branch at 970-243-0181.
• The first quarterly Dog Ears event at the Collbran Branch, 111 Main St., is set for 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26. The number of openings is limited, and those interested in participating should pre-register by calling the Collbran Branch at 970-487-3545.

Existing Dog Ears programs at other Mesa County Libraries locations will continue on their regular schedule:

• 4-5 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction (970-243-4442).
• 4-5 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the Fruita Branch, 324 N. Coulson St. (970-858-7703).
• 3-4 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at the Clifton Branch, 590 32 Road (970-434-6936).