Finding the Joy of books: Kuopio City Library's Reading Project for Special Classes

Abstract

The aim of Reading Project Lukukirjo is to support children’s literacy, especially of those with reading problems. The project organizes workshops for special classes in primary schools. A literary art instructor offers tips on books using action methods and invites children to share their favourite books with others. Under professional guidance, each child can find interesting reading. The workshops also feature a trained Reading Dog (R.E.A.D), named Sylvi. Her presence helps calm down an insecure reader. She doesn’t mind potential errors and is always attentive. Online reading tasks and lists including simplified books, e-audiobooks and book-based movies help in taking up reading. The pages also include book assignments that deepen the reading experience and encourage children in making their own texts. They can be completed alone or with classmates or family members.

The project is run by Kuopio City Library in collaboration with Word Art School Aapeli and three Kuopio-based primary schools. It is funded by the Regional State Administrative Agency for Eastern Finland, and will run from 2021 to 2023.