A Read to Dogs program attracted 25 children to the June 26 session at the main branch of the Bethlehem Area Public Library on Church Street. The young readers are paired with gentle and attentive trained therapy dogs during four 15-minute sessions.

Six canines and their local owners showed up for the special event, which has been offered by the library for 10 years, according to Pat Mickowski of Bethlehem, local community coordinator for the program.

“Sometimes we have as many as 10 therapy dogs and their owners,” said Mickowski, who participates with her Sanders black poodle .

“It’s an unusual experience for children to read aloud to dogs. It encourages them to read for fun, while not being tested,” said Karen Zarelli, youth services assistant at the main library. The event takes place in the new Youth Library on the second floor.

The third and final summer session of the Read to Dogs program will be held Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to noon. Advance registration is required for the free activity. The 11 W. Church St. Main Library contact is 610-867-3761, ext. 499 or www.bapl.org.