Hailey Heseltine
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Jefferson County R.J. Bailar Public Library, located at 375 S. Water St., offers a host of free and fun events for all ages. These events are designed to enrich the community and to inspire children and adults alike, so always keep an eye out for any events you may be interested in attending!
Two exciting and educational events are coming up soon at the library, and information for each is included below.
On Aug. 10, at 5:30 to 7p.m., is the ABC 123 Family Reading Nights literacy event, hosted by the Jefferson County Literacy Alliance (JCLA). This event is a great opportunity for families to help inspire literary interest and get access to free community reading resources. Attendees will enjoy dinner, connect with other families, participate in reading activities and receive free children's books. They are also welcome to browse the library and learn more about valuable opportunities for children, such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The activities are geared toward children from preschool age to 11, but anyone can attend.
On Aug. 15, at 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., is the R.E.A.D. to a Dog event. This event is recurring, with another opportunity occurring soon on Sept. 15. This program is intended to motivate young readers to sharpen their skills in reading aloud, something that is a well-known challenge for many beginning readers, by reading to a furry friend. The trained assistance dog present is friendly, patient and ready to help motivate your child through their reading journey. This program is subject to the availability of the dogs and handlers, and you must sign up for it at the front desk at the library beforehand if you would like to have the opportunity to read to the dog.
“It's all really to help promote literacy,” explains Ashley Garcia, local librarian.
Because of this, all in the community are welcome to attend these fun and meaningful events—the perfect way to promote literacy and have a good time all at once. Please note that children 12 or under must be accompained by an adult 18 or older to attend. To learn more, visit jcpl.wildernesscoast.org or call (850) 342-0205.