“It’s a happy moment for me as a mom to have my son read and improve his reading. I’ve noticed when we are in a car, he starts reading out the signs and reading out the names of the streets. And when I see this happening, I’m like, Oh my gosh, that’s amazing!"
These heartfelt words from a London parent, shared at our reading celebration this past spring, beautifully capture the impact of the READ (Reading Enjoyment and Development) program at London Public Library. Parents of participants in this popular program regularly share their deep appreciation for the program and their happiness as they see their child grow in confidence and reading skills.
For nearly 50 years, READ has helped struggling and reluctant readers in Grades 1–7 gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed, not just in school, but in life.
With the guidance of a trained volunteer reading mentor, this seven-month program helps children by introducing them to a variety of reading materials, motivating them to read, strengthening their literacy skills, encouraging families to read together, and inspiring a love of reading.
Demand for this impactful program is increasing. This fall, in less than 24 hours, 178 families applied for this program, which is far more families than we can currently serve
Parents tell us they want more sessions, more opportunities, and more support. Clearly, the demand is great and the need is urgent.
We need your help to ensure that London families can continue to benefit from the READ program.
When you donate, you make it possible for:
- Children to gain confidence as they read aloud to their mentor.
- Volunteers to receive expert training and resources so they can guide children effectively.
- More families to benefit from the READ program through our Families Reading Together workshops, where parents learn tools and receive materials to support literacy at home.
- Each child’s progress and love of reading to be celebrated with their families and reading mentors at the end of the program.
Gifts of any amount make a difference. Your donation will directly support literacy in our community by helping children who are struggling with reading discover the joy of books and the confidence that comes with learning. Your support will also allow us to reach families who may miss out on being placed in the READ program through our Families Reading Together workshops.
As another grateful parent shared with us this spring:
“This program came like a blessing in disguise. After he started this program, there was a huge change. He’s reading more, he’s reading independently. He’s confident about reading the stories. When I bring lots of books from the library, he’s sitting down and finishing the stories, and it has helped quite a bit.”
Thank you for considering a gift to support the READ program. Together, we can change the story for a child who struggles with reading.
You can Donate Online or by calling our office at 519-661-5100 extension 5460. You can also make a donation in person at any London public Library location.