10/04/2007: "Be A Reading Buddy: Help Kids Learn to Read"

The San Juan Island Library is seeking volunteers to help in its Reading Buddies program. Reading Buddies matches adult reading mentors with elementary-aged children who are learning to read and who need extra encouragement.

Reading Buddies Reading Buddy pairs meet at either the elementary school or at the public Library for about half an hour each week. Having an adult buddy helps a child improve his or her reading skills and encourages the love of reading. Kids who struggle with reading are apt to experience difficulty with all aspects of school as well as have fewer opportunities in later life.

Your volunteer help is needed. Reading Buddies have helped dozens of children read over the years, but in previous years, several children who signed up for an adult Reading Buddy had to go without. This year, about 80 children at Friday Harbor Elementary School have signed up to have a reading buddy, so more adult volunteers are needed now. All volunteers receive support and assistance throughout the year.

Prospective volunteers should contact Shannan Sword at the San Juan Island Library or Jody Metsker at the Friday Harbor Elementary School.

Library cards are free to island residents with proof of residency. Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM.