Literacy & Story Time

Experience animals of all kinds through books.

Home | Youth Programs | Literacy & Story Hours

About this Program

Engaging in books with a variety of reading levels that share the same message of empathy and kindness to animals (and each other!) is pivotal to AWS’ Youth Programs mission. We offer several literacy and story time programs to promote reading, animals, and fun!

Rescue Readers

What to Expect


Open to students in grades 1-8. Rescue Readers brings together elementary/middle school students and resident or therapy pets for a half hour of literary-based confidence building. Reading aloud forms a special bond between student and pet. It provides enrichment and positive socialization for the animal, it boosts confidence in children, and it gives students a safe space to build a positive association with reading.

Students may choose from a variety of books on our special Rescue Readers book cart or they are welcome to bring their own reading materials.

Upcoming Events

Furry Tales Story Time

What to Expect

Furry Tales Story Time combines pets, literacy and fun! Toddlers, preschoolers and their families explore the exciting world of animals with stories, playtime, crafts, songs, movement and plenty of time with various pets.

Furry Tales is a free story hour that takes place each week at a different local library. Check out the listings to find out when Furry Tales is heading to your community!

Upcoming Events

Thank you to Kennebunk Savings for sponsoring Rescue Readers and Furry Tales Story Hour for the 2023-2024 school year.
With their generosity, these programs are free to attend.

Questions?

For more information, please contact Youth Programs Coordinator via email or telephone at (207) 985-3244 ext. 109.

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Have you ever wanted to volunteer with animals? If so, you've come to the right place! The staff and pets at Animal Welfare Society would love your daily help cleaning and sanitizing our animal spaces. Please take a look online under Volunteer Opportunities to see our current needs and if there is a day and time that works with your schedule. We'd love to have you on board, and so would our pets! ❤️