# Event Details

- **Event Name**: Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library
- **Event Start and End Date**: Fri, 24 Jul, 2026 at 05:30 am – Fri, 24 Jul, 2026 at 05:45 am (+10:00)
- **Event Description**: A unique children’s reading support program designed to help primary school-aged children build confidence and strengthen their communication skills.

Children read aloud to a specially trained companion dog and its accredited handler in a calm, friendly setting.

Dogs make ideal reading companions because they listen attentively, offer comfort and never judge. This supportive environment allows children to read at their own pace, helping to reduce anxiety while boosting enjoyment and self confidence.

Newcastle Libraries is proud to partner with Story Dogs Australia to support children on their reading journey and help them grow into confident, lifelong readers.

How the Program Works:

• Children visit a Story Dog Team (handler Bren and her dog Wilma) at Wallsend Library on the same day and time each week for five weeks.

• Children will spend approximately 15–20 minutes reading aloud with the Story Dog Team.

• Reading materials will be matched to each child’s reading level. Children may bring their own book or choose from the library’s wide ranging collection.

• The dog will remain on lead at all times, with the handler present throughout the session.

• A Six Golden Rules poster will be displayed to help children understand how to behave safely and respectfully around the Story Dog.

• Friendly Library staff will be available to support families as needed.

Story Dog Program 1: Fridays 24 July – 21 August

Session times:

• 3:30-3:45pm
• 3:50-4:05pm
• 4:10-4:25pm
• 4:30-4:45pm
• 4:50-5:05pm
• 5:10-5:25pm

Ages: 7-10 years

Cost: Free

Bookings essential – Children must attend five consecutive weeks, each booking is for the full five-week program.

Please note:

• Although the trained Story Dog is immaculately groomed, fully wormed and protected against fleas, children with allergies are recommended not to participate.

• During Story Dogs sessions, access to Wallsend Library is via our Open+ system. Entry requires a library membership number or barcode and a PIN. Not a library member? Joining is free and easy. Sign up online via our website: https://newcastlelibraries.com.au/connect/join/become-a-member or in person at a Newcastle Libraries branch.

If you have any access or inclusion needs, you will be able to advise us when booking.
- **Event URL**: https://allevents.in/hexham/story-dogs-program-1-wallsend-library/200030119962237
- **Event Categories**: dog, flea
- **Interested Audience**: 
  - total_interested_count: 3

## Ticket Details


## Event venue details

- **city**: Hexham
- **state**: NS
- **country**: Australia
- **location**: Wallsend Library, 30 Bunn Street, Wallsend, NSW, 2287
- **lat**: -32.90285
- **long**: 151.66568
- **full address**: Wallsend Library, 30 Bunn Street, Wallsend, NSW, 2287, 30 Bunn St, Wallsend NSW 2287, Australia, Hexham

## Event gallery

- **Alt text**: Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library
  - **Image URL**: https://cdn-az.allevents.in/events10/banners/58b4e03e52d50fd028836789f23bc11a848f065e9cfed71d38db853ed507f52e-rimg-w860-h400-dc8f8e90-gmir?v=1779638795

## FAQs

- **Q**: When and where is Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library being held?
  - **A:** Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library takes place on Fri, 24 Jul, 2026 at 05:30 am to Fri, 24 Jul, 2026 at 05:45 am at Wallsend Library, 30 Bunn Street, Wallsend, NSW, 2287, 30 Bunn St, Wallsend NSW 2287, Australia, Hexham.
- **Q**: Who is organizing Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library?
  - **A:** Story Dogs Program 1 - Wallsend Library is organized by Newcastle Libraries.

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                "description": "Welcome to the Newcastle Libraries (Australia) page!\nLike and follow us for library news, programs and events and to connect with our amazing library staff and community. Our social media guidelines can be found here: https://bit.ly/2HodHb6 "
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