CCPL receives grant to promote reading and animal welfare

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston County Public Library received a $3,500 grant to encourage reading and hold events to raise awareness of animal welfare issues and welfare-related organizations in the Lowcountry.

The project focuses on the book No Shelter Here: Making the World a Kinder Place for Dogs by animal advocate Rob Laidlaw. A biologist, Laidlaw’s book explores the world of homeless, mistreated and exploited dogs and the challenges they face while also focusing on “dog champions” – the individuals, small groups and professional organizations around the world dedicated to helping dogs. Enhanced with photos, informational sidebars and inspiring stories, No Shelter Here encourages young readers to become dog champions in their own communities.

Project-related events planned for July include CCPL staff visits to Charleston Animal Society camps throughout the summer to discuss No Shelter Here, take photographs of campers reading to adoptable animals and help campers make informational posters about humane issues to post at the library.

Dog Days of Summer Photography and Humane Education exhibits

• July 1-31 at the John’s Island Regional Library
• July 14-August 31 at the Main Library
• No Shelter Here book discussion (ages 7-11)
• July 21 at 2 p.m. at the Main Library. Registration required; call 805-6893.

Dog Days of Summer Main Event (ages 8 and older)

• July 26 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium 

Learn about veterinary medicine, therapy dogs and humane societies, and visit with dogs during the event.

This grant was awarded by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services and is administered by the S.C. State Library.