The Jackson County Public Library has announced a new program called Paws to Read featuring George, a gentle standard poodle who likes hugs, as the guest of honor.

This free 30-minute program was created with struggling readers in mind to help build confidence and increase fluency when reading aloud.

The program for children in kindergarten through fifth grade is at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at the Seymour Library, 303 W. Second St. It also will be conducted at 4:30 p.m. Feb. 2 and 16.

For information about Paws to Read or any of the other programs offered at the Jackson County Public Library, call 812-522-3412, option 2, follow the library on Facebook or visit myjclibrary.org/events.