Join the Berkshire Athenaeum at The Mount for Paws & Pages, a special program celebrating the joy of books, reading, and four-legged friends! Young readers are invited to practice their literacy skills by reading aloud to a therapy dog in a relaxed, supportive environment. During 10-minute sessions, children can choose a favorite book and share it with a patient and attentive canine listener.
Reading times are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving at the start of the program to sign up for a session!
There’s plenty more to explore beyond Paws & Pages. Families can follow a StoryWalk® along the grounds and create their own nature journal, encouraging observation, creativity, and a closer connection to the beautiful landscape surrounding Edith Wharton’s historic home.
This family-friendly program brings together books, nature, and the companionship of therapy dogs for a memorable day of reading, creativity, and discovery at The Mount.
Please note: This event is for the registered therapy dogs below! While we love your pets, personal pets are not permitted at this event.
Meet the Pups!
Daisy Deux is a medium size 6 year old Sproodle (Springer spaniel/poodle). She has been a Bright Spot certified therapy dog for 3 years now. We have worked in local schools in independent reading programs and have visited local rehab facilities upon request. Daisy has also worked with a private trainer as a neutral dog for some clients. Daisy loves people, especially children.
Milo is a 3 year old rescued cattle dog mix. He has been certified as a therapy dog since he was a year old. We go to nursing homes, assisted living, elementary school, BCARC day program. We are certified with R. E. A. D. Which is a reading program for children. We are looking forward to the program. Kathy Korte
Nandi is a 5.5 year old English Labrador Retriever. She has been a Bright Spot Therapy dog for 2 years and has also earned her AKC Advanced Therapy dog title. We visit Phelps Cancer Center every Wednesday for visits to staff and patients and Lee Library every other Tuesday for story time. (She recently made the front page of the Eagle!) Nandi is also an accomplished Nosework Champion.
Mabel is a small dog with a BIG personality! She loves playing with her stuffed animals and even chooses one to take to bed every night. Her favorite snack is carrots, and her favorite place to be is curled up on someone’s lap, getting lots of pets. When she’s not snuggling, Mabel loves keeping an eye out for squirrels and rabbits—and chasing them whenever she gets the chance! She also adores her big puppy sister, Luna. Most of all, Mabel loves being with people and making new friends. She can’t wait to snuggle up, listen to some great stories, and meet you!
IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION:
- This program is designed for young readers, accompanied by their grown-ups. This program is free and open to the public; registration is not required.
- Ten-minute reading sessions with therapy dogs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Capacity is limited, and sign-ups begin at 11:00 AM.
- Paws & Pages takes place in the Carriage Wash in The Mount’s Stable, then continues along the StoryWalk trail—a wide, gently sloped woodchip path through the woods. Most strollers can navigate the trail with ease. Please be mindful of the weather and plan accordingly!
- Questions about The Mount? Email: programs@edithwharton.org
- Questions about Paws & Pages? Email: sara@pittsfieldlibrary.org
