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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 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.
2025 Spring Sessions
See below for upcoming program dates. Schedule subject to change until the program begins.
| Where | When | Time | Registration |
| City Centre | Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 25 |
| Clayton | Wednesdays, April 9 - May 14 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 19 |
| Cloverdale | Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 25 |
| Fleetwood | Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13 | 4:30-5:30pm | In branch starting March 18 |
| Guildford | Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 25 |
| Newton | Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 25 |
| Ocean Park | Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13 | 5:30-6:30pm | In branch starting March 18 |
| Semiahmoo | Thursdays, April 17- May 22 | 4:00-5:00pm | In branch starting March 27 |
| Strawberry Hill | Wednesdays, April 9 - May 14 | 3:30-4:30pm | In branch starting March 19 |
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:
Spring 2025 Teen Applications will open February 11th. 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.