Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Book Buddy Program Pairs Teens & Toddlers

Teen leaders at the Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St., have organized a fun reading event for preschoolers, ages 3-5, every Friday from 1:30-2:30 pm in the Youth Services Dept. Beginning Friday, June 17, members of the TeenSpace Leadership group will become Book Buddies to interested kids and their parents. A Book Buddy shares his/her favorite story with a young listener for 15 minutes or more of one-on-one reading.

This program provides teens with a valuable community service opportunity and exposes them to multi-generational activities. As well, Book Buddies gives young listeners another wonderful opportunity to share books and develop critical early literacy skills.

Children who are routinely read to learn to read more easily and become better prepared academically for entrance into school. Reading to children encourages their development of skills in language, listening, vocabulary, self-expression and attention span.

15 minute time slots with teen volunteers are available on a first come/first served basis or may be reserved ahead of time by contacting the Youth Services Dept. at 262.636.9245. Parents are welcome to be present during the one-on-one readings and may bring a child's favorite books if desired.

Teens interested in volunteering for the Book Buddy program may contact Becky Spika at 262.619.2571 or email becky.spika@racinelibrary.info.

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