Anoka County Library Opens Registration For Reading Bridge Literacy Program For Early Readers

The Anoka County Library is accepting registrations for Reading Bridge, a free, community based literacy support program designed to help young readers in grades 1 through 3 build confidence and strengthen essential reading skills during a critical stage of development.

Offered each winter, spring, summer, and fall, Reading Bridge pairs elementary students who are reading below grade level with trained volunteer mentors for consistent, one on one reading support in a welcoming library setting. The upcoming winter and spring session runs from February 9 through April 11, 2026, with registration open now and closing January 31, 2026.

A structured, supportive approach to early literacy

Reading Bridge is built around consistency and relationship building. Students are matched with the same volunteer mentor and meet once per week for approximately 45 to 60 minutes, always on the same day and at the same time. Library officials emphasize that regular attendance is essential to the program’s success.

Each session follows a structured yet flexible format that supports literacy development while keeping young readers engaged. According to the library, activities typically include shared reading, with students and mentors taking turns reading aloud, as well as literacy games that focus on sight words, phonics, spelling, and sound recognition. Sessions also create space for creative expression, allowing students to talk about what they read, draw pictures, or write short reflections connected to the book. Mentors often help students set simple reading goals for the week ahead, reinforcing confidence and motivation.

Who is eligible

The program is open to students who meet the following criteria:

• Currently enrolled in grades 1 through 3
• Reading below grade level
• Living in or attending school in Anoka County
• Able to commit to attending weekly sessions for the duration of the program

To ensure safety and supervision, a parent or caregiver is required to remain in the library during each mentoring session.

Because Reading Bridge is designed to provide consistent mentorship, families are asked not to register if they expect their child to miss more than two sessions. Library staff recommend waiting for a future season if scheduling conflicts are anticipated.

What Reading Bridge is and is not

Library officials are careful to clarify that Reading Bridge is a literacy support and mentorship program, not a clinical or academic intervention. It does not provide homework help, formal reading assessments, or diagnoses for learning differences such as dyslexia. It is also not a replacement for specialized school based services or professional reading intervention. Instead, the program offers encouragement, practice, and positive reading experiences that complement classroom learning.

Registration details

Registration is handled through the Anoka County Library’s online event calendar, LibCal. Families select a specific library branch and an available weekly time slot that fits their schedule. Registration is first come, first served, and space is limited. Students may only be registered for one weekly session, and duplicate registrations will be canceled to allow more families to participate.

Powered by volunteers and community support

Reading Bridge relies on trained volunteer mentors who commit to meeting weekly with the same student throughout the session. Volunteers complete an application process that includes training and a background check. The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Anoka County Library, whose support helps ensure the program remains free and accessible to families across the county.

More information about Reading Bridge, including registration and volunteer opportunities, is available through the Anoka County Library section of the Anoka County, Minnesota Official Website.

For many families, Reading Bridge offers more than reading practice. It provides a steady bridge between where a child is and where they are capable of going, one page at a time.

MinneapoliMedia