Reading Buddies
Reading Buddies is a program that supports children who are new readers and helps to build their confidence and improve their skills. Children are paired with a teen volunteer and will spend time reading together in a safe, supportive environment. This program runs for six weeks two times per year, in the Spring and Fall. Each session is 60 minutes (1 hour) long. Children and teens who sign up for this program must attend all 6 weekly sessions.
Children (Little Buddies)
Little Buddies will have the opportunity to engage with a teen Big Buddy, building relationships and practicing literacy skills. Children must have some reading ability already as this program does not teach them how to read.
How To Register
Registration for Little Buddies opens 3 weeks before the program begins. You must come into the branch to apply in person. You may download and fill out the registration form in advance.
Please continue to check this page for updates.
2024 Fall Sessions
See below for upcoming program dates. Schedule subject to change until the program begins.
| Where | When | Time | Registration |
| City Centre | Tuesdays, October 22 - November 26 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting October 1 |
| Clayton | Wednesdays, October 16 - November 20 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting September 25 |
| Cloverdale | Tuesdays, October 22 - November 26 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting October 1 |
| Fleetwood | Thursdays, October 17 - November 28 (no session October 31) | 3:45-4:45pm | In branch starting September 26 |
| Guildford | Tuesdays, October 15 - November 19 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting September 24 |
| Newton | Tuesdays, October 22 - November 26 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting October 1 |
| Ocean Park | Tuesdays, October 29 - December 3 | 5:00-6:00pm | In branch starting October 8 |
| Semiahmoo | Thursdays, October 17 - November 28 (no session October 31) | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting September 26 |
| Strawberry Hill | Wednesdays, October 23 - November 27 | 3:30-4:30pm | In branch starting October 2 |
Teen Volunteers (Big Buddies)
As an Reading Buddies Volunteer, you are a role model to a young reader, practicing reading with your Little Buddy and engaging in fun literacy activities. Being a Big Buddy is a rewarding experience and counts towards volunteer hours. For teens ages 14-18.
How to Apply:
Teen Applications will open at least 5 weeks before the program start date. All teen applicants must apply for this program through the city My Impact Page. You will need to have an account to apply. All volunteers must apply to be considered. All new volunteers must submit 2 references to be considered. New volunteers will also be required to attend a training session before the program start date. Please continue to check this page for updates.