The Children’s Room, at the Rochester Public Library, is pleased to report the success of this year’s Summer Reading Program, which centered around the nationwide theme “All Together Now.”

According to staff, the program, driven by a commitment to fostering a sense of community, has been met with overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from young readers and their families.

Throughout the summer, the Children’s Room organized a series of events and activities designed to bring the community together. These included Storytime at Abby’s Place, heartwarming visits with Koda, a therapy dog who provided a safe space for children to overcome their fear of dogs, participation in a community art project, a community game night, and involvement in the National Night Out, among others.

Children’s librarian Christina Paquette shared, “Visits with Koda allowed several children who were nervous with dogs the chance to visit with a well-mannered dog in a controlled environment. Koda enjoyed the belly rubs and showed her appreciation with lots of kisses.”

Paquette thanks local businesses that generously sponsored the program, namely JetPack Comics, Sparkles and Smiles, Lone Oak, and Golicks, adding “Their generosity truly helped the library “put the unity in community.”

For more information on future library events and initiatives visit www.rpl.lib.nh.us.