Paws for Books: Therapy Dogs at the Library

Since 2016, therapy dogs have been a cherished and consistent presence at the Sea Girt Library, offering comfort, encouragement, and connection to children and families. The program began shortly after Library Director Lisa Luke and staff member JoAnn Johnson joined the library.

“Back in 2016, when JoAnn and I had just started working at the library, we had heard how therapy dogs were a great way to encourage early literacy in children,” Luke explains. “We were hooked at the thought of dogs and reading together; two of our favorite things.”

From the outset, the goal extended beyond literacy.

“Not only did we hope that therapy dogs would attract more families to our library, but we hoped this program would increase local awareness of the great programs we offer at Sea Girt Library,” Luke says.

Nearly a decade later, the program continues, with dogs visiting on the third Thursday of every month.

Four-Legged Friends

The Sea Girt Library partners with The Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit organization whose therapy dogs and handlers complete formal training and certification.

“Our therapy dogs are members of Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs. The dogs and their owners go through training through B&B,” Luke says.

Judy Karrberg, who has volunteered with Bright and Beautiful since approximately 2012, described the longstanding collaboration with appreciation: “My husband and I have been involved with The Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc. since approximately 2012,” she says. The Karrbergs began visiting the Sea Girt Library a few years later, and the relationship quickly became meaningful. Today, they bring three Smooth Collies and one Rough Collie to visits at the library.

Luke emphasizes the importance of consistency and teamwork among the therapy dog group. “The dogs are part of a working group, and they all know each other. This is important as the dogs must be used to each other on working visits,” she says. “They typically arrive 15 minutes before their visit officially starts so that the dogs can greet each other and get settled in our children’s room.”

Because the same handlers have participated for years, the partnership has grown beyond professionalism into friendship.

“We have been working with the same dog owners for so long, we’ve developed a strong friendship with them. Their visits are always a highlight!” Luke says. As a gesture of appreciation, the library even created custom “Sea Girt Library Dog Librarian” bandanas for the dogs several years ago.

A Welcoming Environment

On visit days, the Children’s Room transforms into a warm, interactive literacy space. They set out books they think will be fun for children to read to the dogs, and then visitors are welcomed. Most people circle the room to meet all the dogs, then children may choose dogs to read to. Some people spend all their time petting these calm and friendly dogs, which can be the best part.

The informal structure allows children to engage at their own pace, whether by reading aloud or simply enjoying the dogs’ calming presence. There are all age ranges of visitors, who can enjoy a room full of gentle dogs.

Parents frequently report that the program’s impact extends beyond the library walls.

“We have been told by parents that children will go home and read to their stuffed animals, and that makes us so happy to hear,” Luke says.

Such feedback reflects how therapy dogs help build confidence and foster positive reading habits.

Karrberg echoed the sentiment, describing the Sea Girt Library as “extraordinary in so many ways” and praised the staff as warm and welcoming to the visitors, guests, and therapy dogs and their handlers. She added that their visits “remain a highlight of our therapy dog experiences, without fail.”

Lasting Impact

The continued success of the therapy dog program demonstrates the power of thoughtful community partnership. What began as an effort to promote early literacy has evolved into a beloved tradition that strengthens connection, confidence, and joy within the Sea Girt community.

Through collaboration with Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc., and the dedication of library staff and volunteers, the Sea Girt Library has created an environment where children feel safe, encouraged, and inspired. Nearly 10 years later, the therapy dogs remain not just visitors, but valued members of the library family, bringing a fun and festive time with a lot of love for all.

Visit golden-dogs.org to learn more about Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc. and the Sea Girt Library for information on this and other programs at seagirtlibrary.com.

Photographs Courtesy of Lisa Luke, Sea Girt Library Director and Judy Karrberg

Danielle Kutcher is a retired elementary teacher and mom of three. She loves to read, walk on the beach, and go on adventures with her family.