Good news for dog-lovers and book-lovers alike — due to popular demand, we will be continuing our Read to Kurī programme at Ruth Gotlieb (Kilbirnie) Library throughout Term 4!
Every Thursday after school from the 19th of October until 14th of December, you’ll be able to book in a 15-minute slot to read to either Zibu or Archie, two gorgeous therapy pups from our friends at Canine Friends Pet Therapy. Read on to learn more about Read to Kurī, and how you can book your session!
Our gorgeous doggos for Read to Kurī — Zibu (left) and Archie (right)
What is Read to Kurī?
At Read to Kurī, you will book in for a 15-minute one-on-one reading session with one of our gorgeous doggy pals from Canine Friends Pet Therapy. You will be able to choose a book and curl up somewhere cosy in the library to read with your chosen dog. The dog’s handler will be present at all times.
Read to Kurī aims to help tamariki improve their literacy, self-confidence, and self-esteem in a relaxed, non-judgemental environment. All dogs have been trained and tested for health, safety, and temperament, and many have experience working with young children.
Research shows that therapy dogs:
- Can increase a child’s relaxation while reading
- Listen attentively
- Do not laugh, judge or criticise a child’s reading level
- Allow children to proceed at their own pace
- Can be less intimidating to read to than a child’s peers
This programme is perfect for tamariki aged 5+ who would like to practice their reading skills while making a new canine friend at the library. Bookings are essential as spaces are limited.
Meet the Kurī
We are very lucky to have two talented pooches join us for Read to Kurī at Kilbirnie Library during the term. Read on to find out a little bit more about each dog!
Kurī 1: Zibu
Handler: Xanthia Freer
Zibu is a Cavapoochon breed, which is a mix of King Charles Cavalier, Miniature poodle, and Bichon Frisé. Her particular breed is often used in the USA and Australia as a companion animal.
Zibu and her handler, Xanthia, very much enjoy their Canine Friends therapy sessions and specialise in interacting with students at universities and schools, particularly assisting those who may have a fear of canines.
Zibu has a very sweet nature, loves chasing her ball and her frisbee, and is best friends with Xanthia’s male cat, Tigga.
Xanthia and Zibu will be at Kilbirnie Library from 3.15 – 4.30pm every second Thursday starting on Thursday 19 October.
Book your session with Zibu – October 19
Book your session with Zibu – November 2
Book your session with Zibu – November 16
Book your session with Zibu – November 30
Book your session with Zibu – December 14
Kurī 2: Archie
Handler: Penny Griffith
“My name is Archie and I am six years old. I absolutely love people, and especially children!
I am a Schnoodle — my mummy is a Schnauzer and my daddy is a Poodle.
I think I will be very good at listening to children reading me stories… maybe they can even teach me how to read!”
Penny and Archie will be at Kilbirnie Library from 3.15 – 4.30pm every second Thursday starting on Thursday 26 October.
Book your session with Archie – October 26
Book your session with Archie – November 9
Book your session with Archie – November 23
Book your session with Archie – December 7
Spaces for Read to Kurī are strictly limited, so make sure you register early to guarantee your spot!