The Blacksburg Branch Library will be hosting a program for children of all ages to meet Casey, a therapy dog, and her owner Dee Larkin on May 9, 2006 from 3:00-6:00pm. Both dog and owner are from Blacksburg. Casey is part of Therapy Dogs International (TDI), a volunteer group organized to provide qualified handlers and their Therapy Dogs for visitations in a variety of facilities and settings.

Schools and libraries nationwide are quickly discovering the value of Therapy Dogs. Therapy Dogs give children the encouragement they need to read aloud. More confidence in reading could lead to improved grades in school. Children's confidence and reading skills grow in a relaxing environment. Each child will have a one on one session with Casey and her handler. The child will get to read a book to Casey. The child will also learn to interact with dogs in a positive, supportive situation.