This summer children ages 5 to 12 have cozied up to specially trained dogs for one-on-one time during SIT, STAY, READ! at the Robertsdale Public Library. The beginning readers feel more confident after trying out their skills on the most non-critical of all listeners.

Cynthia Nall, director of Robertsdale Public Library, hosted an appreciation party for the volunteers in the reading assistance program.

Nall presented each dog a book; the inside cover has an inscription “Dedicated in honor of (dog’s name) from the SIT, STAY, READ! Program 2009 at the Robertsdale Public Library.”

The books are available for the children to read to the dogs; they are a permanent part of the library collection.

Due to popular demand, there is a possibility the SIT, STAY, READ! program will resume in September. For more information, call the Robertsdale Public Library at 947-8960.

The elite group of dogs has their own Web site with pictures and fun facts. To learn what their favorite book, trick, treat and day-off activity is, visit www.wowzaphotography.com/sitstayread. To schedule a visit to your daycare, church or school - or to volunteer your dog and your time - contact Sonja Presley at (251) 591- 4837 or SitStayRead@WowzaPhotography.com.