This month we’re highlighting volunteer Yee Leong and her pups! Yee partners with Canine Companions to bring good boys Falcon and Gambit to the library and bookmobile. Falcon is a therapy dog who loves to listen to children read at Bow Wow Reading and Gambit is a service dog-in-training who visits the library for socialization and (much deserved) attention. We sat down with the trio for an interview – with only the occasional interruption for dog tricks and treats.
What inspired you to become volunteers and why did you choose the library as your place to serve?
Falcon: I love being a part of the community. The more community you have, the more faces you have to lick!
Gambit: The library is a great place to be able to stretch my paws and relax. Plus, I love the smell of books!
What’s your favorite book?
Falcon & Gambit: We love any book about dogs! But we especially enjoy I Want a Dog by Jon Agee, Can I Be Your Dog? by Troy Cummings, and The Perfect Dog by Kevin O’Malley.
How do you help shy readers feel more comfortable at Bow Wow Reading?
Falcon: My big ears make me a really good listener. Also, I don’t understand most words, so readers can feel free to make all the mistakes they want. And I wag my tail a lot – that makes readers feel good!
What does a typical work day look like for you?
Falcon: I visit West to read with young humans.
Gambit: And sometimes we go to senior living centers with the bookmobile to visit older humans. We also get lots of cuddles and pets wherever we go!
If Falcon and Gambit could write their own story, what would the title be?
Yee: Their book would be called Hooligans at Large!
Please join us in thanking Yee, Falcon, and Gambit for their contributions to the library and for brightening our days!