Read with Ziggy the Pug for Grades K-5

Join Ziggy (the pug) and his caretaker Andrea (the human) as kids get a chance to read with them one-on-one for 15 minutes. Kids entering grades K-5 in Fall 2026 are welcome to bring a book or choose one from the Library. Parents are asked to wait in the Children's Room while their child enjoys reading together with Ziggy. Register one child per slot; please only register for one slot, 11:30, 11:45, 12:00, or 12:15 PM. Reading to a therapy dog is a proven and effective way to help children improve literacy and communication skills. Reading aloud to a specially trained, calm, and nonjudgmental dog creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where children feel comfortable and uninhibited, leading to increased confidence and reduced stress. These positive effects support stronger reading development and communication abilities. Therapy Dog Brigade’s specially trained and certified therapy dogs, volunteering alongside their owner-handlers, visit schools, libraries, and other community settings to provide a safe and supportive space for young readers, inspiring them to enjoy reading and grow into lifelong learners. Library Parking The Library leases 76 spaces marked "LIBRARY" in the Center School Lot to offer free parking for our patrons. All other numbered spaces in the lot remain municipal and are subject to metering rates. View more parking info here. Accessibility and Accommodations We strive to facilitate access to information and Library services for all patrons. If you have questions about accessibility or a request for accommodation, please phone 203-594-5002, email the librarian in charge of this program (see contact info above) , or email child@newcanaanlibrary.org with as much lead time as possible. Youth Participation Guidelines If your child is under 12 years old, an adult caregiver must remain in the Children’s Room for the duration of the program. If your child finishes a program early, or if a child becomes ill, distressed, or behaves in a manner that interferes with other participants’ enjoyment of the program, they may be released into the Children’s Room before the program’s end time. Please ensure that your child knows exactly where to find you at all times. Thank You for Your Support! The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider making a tax-deductible gift to the Library’s Annual Fund so we can continue to offer programs like this one. The Library leases 76 spaces marked "LIBRARY" in the Center School Lot to offer free parking for our patrons. All other numbered spaces in the lot remain municipal and are subject to metering rates. View more parking info here. We strive to facilitate access to information and Library services for all patrons. If you have questions about accessibility or a request for accommodation, please phone 203-594-5002, email the librarian in charge of this program (see contact info above) , or email child@newcanaanlibrary.org with as much lead time as possible. If your child is under 12 years old, an adult caregiver must remain in the Children’s Room for the duration of the program. If your child finishes a program early, or if a child becomes ill, distressed, or behaves in a manner that interferes with other participants’ enjoyment of the program, they may be released into the Children’s Room before the program’s end time. Please ensure that your child knows exactly where to find you at all times. The Library is pleased to be able to offer free programs and events through the generous donations of patrons like you. Please consider making a tax-deductible gift to the Library’s Annual Fund so we can continue to offer programs like this one.