TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to investigate the implementation of the B.A.R.K. reading program in libraries throughout the city.
DISCUSSION
Beach Animals Reading with Kids (B.A.R.K.) is a program that encourages children to increase their reading skills and self-confidence by reading aloud to certified therapy dogs. Through the B.A.R.K. program, reading to certified therapy dogs helps children who may otherwise be intimidated by reading to adults to feel comfortable while practicing and increasing their reading skills.
For the last two years, B.A.R.K has been tested as a pilot program at the Bret Harte Library and has had great success. Additionally, the program has recently been successfully introduced at Los Altos Library in the 4th District. This program has also been implemented at libraries throughout California, including Signal Hill, Lakewood, and Bellflower. Therefore, the city manager is requested to investigate the implementation of this program at interested libraries throughout the city.
FISCAL IMPACT
The B.A.R.K. program is provided by volunteers without cost to the city. Therefore, implementing this program is one way we can enhance services to our residents within our existing fiscal constraints.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
JAMES JOHNSON
COUNCILMEMBER, SEVENTH DISTRICT
PATRICK O'DONNELL
COUNCILMEMBER, FOURTH DISTRICT