The City of Gulf Shores and the Thomas B Norton Public Library are excited to introduce the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program this fall. The READ program improves the literacy skills of children in first, second and third grades through the assistance of registered canine therapy and literacy mentors. On Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. the READ program will be introduced at the Thomas B Norton Public Library. Parents and children can enjoy the opportunity to meet and interact with “Bounder,” the library’s selected canine partner, and his owner Kitty Bearden while learning more about the benefits of the program and how to register.

Don’t hesitate to contact Children’s Librarian Amy Maliska, amaliska@gulfshoresal.gov, if you have any questions or would like additional information.