"Books with Badges" will partner young kids with police officers

Posted: Tue, Jun 19, 2018 9:18 AM

A new reading program is beginning in Decorah for children entering kindergarten through third grade. "Books with Badges" will partner local youth with local law enforcement officers.

"The goal of Books With Badges is to help improve reading while promoting and improving the image of police in our community," says Children's and Youth Librarian Joan Roach.

Decorah Assistant Police Chief Dave Smutzler, who first promoted the idea of a shared reading program, says, "By bringing these two groups together, we can create an environment of mutual understanding and respect."

"Books and Badges" will be held at the Decorah Public Library on Monday, June 25th, and Wednesday, July 11th, from 2:30 p.m. until 3:15 p.m. both days.

Children who are reading independently are invited to come to the library to share stories with members from the Decorah Police Department. Refreshments and prizes will be provided. Please register in advance at www.decorah.lib.ia.us or by contacting Joan Roach at (563)382-3717.