Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN – A child reading aloud to a dog may sound unusual–but at the Lucan Library, it’s part of a growing effort to make reading less intimidating and more accessible.
The library has launched a new program where children can sit with a trained therapy dog and read in a calm, supportive environment designed for emerging and reluctant readers. “They can read a story to the dog in a space where there’s no pressure or judgment,” said Branch Supervisor Leigh Robinson. “It really helps kids who need a bit more confidence.”
The idea grew out of earlier visits from therapy dogs, which drew a strong response from the community. The program has since developed into a regular monthly offering, with families able to register for 15-minute sessions.
The reading initiative is just one example of how the library is expanding its role beyond traditional services.
An upcoming program will bring in a storm chaser to speak about tornadoes and extreme weather, offering a hands-on learning experience that has already attracted significant interest.
At the same time, the library continues to run its long-standing seed library, providing free seed packages to residents without requiring a library card. The initiative aims to support local food security while encouraging people to try gardening. “It’s just to help with food security,” Robinson said.
The space also serves as a platform for local creativity, with rotating art exhibits featuring student work from area schools. Displays change throughout the year, giving young artists an opportunity to share their work with the community.
For Robinson, the variety of programming reflects a clear purpose. “At the end of the day, everything we do is about making the library a place people feel comfortable coming to,” she said.
That approach was recently recognized with the 2026 Mayor’s Honour Roll – Community Engagement Award. “It’s very humbling to be included with the other recipients,” Robinson said. “I still get goosebumps thinking about it.”
Now approaching 24 years at the library, she says the motivation behind her work remains simple. “I love this community and the people I work with,” she said. “That’s what makes this job so meaningful.”
With new ideas continuing to emerge and strong participation from residents, the Lucan Library is steadily redefining what a small-town library can be–not just a place for books, but a space where people feel supported, connected and encouraged to grow.
