Read to a Dog

A quiet Thursday read aloud session at Rockridge Branch

On Thursday, November 19, the Rockridge Branch of the Oakland Public Library is making room for one of the sweetest kinds of reading practice around. From 4:00 to 5:00 pm, kids can take a turn reading aloud to a visiting dog.

The setup is simple. Stop by the Children's Reference Desk, sign up for a turn, and settle in with Finn, Gladys, or Christina. The dogs rotate visits, and each one brings the same calm, patient energy. No corrections. No pressure. Just a soft listener and a book.

Rockridge Branch is already a good spot for a low key afternoon. It has that neighborhood library feel, with families coming through after school and staff nearby to help point people in the right direction. This hour fits right into that rhythm.

This is a nice pick for early readers, kids who want more practice, or anyone who feels shy reading out loud. A dog listener can make the whole thing feel easier. And honestly, having a dog in the library is a pretty good reason to stop in.

Oakland Public Library, Rockridge Branch, Oakland, CA. Thursday, November 19, 2026, 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Check in at the Children's Reference Desk when you arrive, and ask library staff for accessibility information.

Did you know that some dogs love to listen when new or experienced readers practice reading aloud?

Each person will have a turn reading aloud to one of the three dogs who alternate coming to Rockridge to help you practice reading; Finn, Gladys, or Christina. 

Drop by on Thursday afternoons, check in at the Children’s Reference Desk to sign up for your turn. 

Get accessibility information.