Kids Buddy Up To Promote Reading At Keene Public Library

Young children and older teens and 'tweens interested in developing a love of reading need look no farther than the Keene Public Library.  This summer, the library is expanding on a unique opportunity.  The program called “Book Buddies” pairs rookie readers with trained veteran readers.   Students entering first, second, or third grade are encouraged to sign up now so that they can be matched with middle or high school students.  Throughout the summer, these “Book Buddies” meet regularly at the library to read, write, and talk about books.  The “Big Buddy” mentors promote an interest in books, reading, and writing as well as encourage the “Little Buddy” to practice new reading skills at home.  With the help of “Big Buddies,” young children will gain confidence in their reading and themselves while building an interest in books and a love of reading and writing. 

The library is currently recruiting both Little and Big Book Buddies.  Applications are availble in the Library's Youth Department. You can also download pdfs of both Little Buddy Applications and Big Buddies Applications. Little Buddies may be struggling with reading or they may just want a little extra help.  Book Buddies may strike a chord with teens and 'tweens looking to do something especially meaningful this summer. A special training is required of Big Book Buddies.  This training takes place on June 12 at 1 pm. 

This is the third year of the Book Buddy Program at the Keene Public Library.  Last year, there were 15 pairs of reading buddies at the library.  To get ready, the library has been beefing up its collection of beginning readers.  This year, there will be plenty of materials for each pair.  Some of the popular themes for beginning readers are animals, comics, superheroes, and humorous books. 

Registration for Book Buddies has begun and will continue through Friday, June 4.

Participants will be notified of their partners and meeting times by June 21.   For more information, please call Gail Zachariah at 603-352-0157.