Youths offered indoor alternatives

Area children will get a chance to cuddle up and read with a dog at the Carson City Library this month as one of several free activities parents can take advantage of to stay out of the chilly weather.

The READ program from 10:30 a.m. to noon Jan. 24 will be presented by the Pet Network of North Lake Tahoe, members of which will share therapy dogs that children can read with one-on-one. The library is taking signups for the program because of limited space.

Libraries in Carson City, Dayton and Douglas County hold weekly storytimes and other programs for preschoolers and schoolchildren that boost learning and a joy of reading, said Carson City Library youth librarian Cory King.

"It's a bonding experience for both (parents and children)," King said. "They're learning to hear stories, and it's always a lot of fun."

The "Lap-Sit" program for 2-year-olds Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. is the most popular at the Carson Library, King said. The program lasts 20 minutes - just enough time for the little ones to listen to nursery rhymes, picture books and board stories before squirming away.

Parents must stay with their children during the reading time.

At Family Night at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, children of all ages and their parents can enjoy stories from picture books, songs, storytelling, board stories and craft projects.

Preschool story time is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays for ages 3 to 5. Children hear stories from a variety of authors, new songs, finger play and board stories.

The library also offers an English/Spanish bilingual storytime called "Bienvenidos" at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. The program offers songs, action rhymes and books in both languages for all ages.

The Carson City Library Chess Club hosts free games in the auditorium from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturdays. The club was started by a high school student nearly two years ago and has continued to be popular.

Beginners can learn from other players and all ages are encouraged to join, King said. Players can bring their own boards.

For teens, the Chinese Dragons, or Teen Advisory Board, meets at 7 p.m. every first and third Thursday for grades six through 12. The group helps plan teen events and events at the library, discuss books, and do other activities.

Across from the high school and middle school, the Dayton Valley Branch Library holds story time for toddlers and kindergartners at 11:40 a.m. Wednesdays. The activity offers songs, finger plays and action rhymes.

Douglas County Library's Minden branch holds storytime for ages 3 and older at 10 a.m. Wednesdays. At Bedtime Storytime once a month, children can come dressed in pajamas and bring blankets and stuffed animals. This month's Bedtime Storytime is 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Jan. 26.

Contact Jill Lufrano at jlufrano@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.