The Cazenovia Public Library and Museum recently started a program that uses therapy dogs to help kids learn how to read.

While learning to read is critical, it’s not easy. According to the Literacy Network, 67% of fourth graders nationwide read below grade level.

The Cazenovia Public Library (CPL) provides kids a unique way to improve their reading skills.

“We came in here and discovered that there’s a dog you can read to every third Tuesday at the library," said Carol Pugh, who along with her son, Andrew, stumbled upon Alexander, a therapy dog that's part of the READ program at the library.

Once a month, kids can read to him for up to an hour to increase their enthusiasm for reading.

“It’s quite exciting to get to read to a pet, or get to read to a furry friend, which I think is quite a unique, new opportunity,” Carol Pugh said.

The goal is to provide kids with a stress-free environment. For Jenna Wright, the youth services coordinator at CPL, one of the biggest reasons why is reading anxiety. With this program, kids don’t have to worry.

“What is so nice about reading with Alexander is that he doesn’t judge," Wright said. "He is just a sweet, wonderful, smooth-coat collie.”

Kids can have fears of stumbling over words, seeing one they can’t pronounce or being made fun of. Alexander allows them to be authentic.

“I think that is really the very best part of this program, is that the kids are really just getting to be themselves,” Wright said.

That comfort creates an amazing experience for kids, however, it’s not possible without Jane LaSure, Alexander’s longtime handler. She said animals and children are a great match.

“I grew up loving to read, and I also have a passion for animals," LaSure said. "I see what they bring back to children, so it’s a perfect combination.”

LaSure said dogs are proven to help increase relaxation, lower blood pressure and do not set a pace. Through the first three sessions, one moment stood out to her.

“A first-grader was struggling to read, and she picked out a book about a therapy dog," LaSure said. "When she was finished reading it, she turned to me and she said, ‘I wish I knew a therapy dog.’ And I said, ‘Well, look, he is a therapy dog.’ And she started crying with joy and ran and got another book.”

While the atmosphere Alexander helps create is vital, LaSure believes kids choosing books to read is just as important.

“The books that they read to him are picked out by the children, and so they have a vested interest in it. They really take on some ownership. It gives them confidence and that improves their fluency and comprehension,” LaSure said.

Andrew Pugh spent 30 minutes reading to Alexander. It’s safe to say he liked it.

"He was just sitting at my side, just looking at the book," Andrew Pugh said, adding that he would return for more reading. Reading with Alexander gives kids the chance to improve their ability while being themselves. LaSure believes it will benefit children in the future.

“I think it sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and happiness," she said.

The next session is at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 17.