Kid Reading Buddies

Thanks for your interest in our Reading Buddies program! For 2023 Reading Buddies will return in a new form! The 2023 version of Reading Buddies still allows a Teen Buddy in the S.A.I.L. program and a Kid Buddy (in grades kindergarten through third grade) to develop a relationship through reading, but with a twist.

Effective 2023, the Kid Reading Buddies no longer need to fill out an application. They can simply register for a session at their local branch through our Event Calendar, similar to registering for a storytime.

The day of the session, the Kid Buddy will partner with an available Teen Buddy and choose a book from a display or cart curated by the Teen Buddies. They will take turns reading and then do a craft!

Teen Buddies interested in participating in Reading Buddies need to apply and be registered for a S.A.I.L. program at their local branch. The following branches may either require Reading Buddies as part of the S.A.I.L. program or offer it as a choice.

As 2023 is a pilot year, this program is only available at select branches: Barnegat, Berkeley, Brick, Island Heights, Jackson, Lacey, Little Egg Harbor, Long Beach Island, Manchester, Point Pleasant Borough, & Stafford.