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Leading to Reading

A free program that pairs kids in Grades 1-6 with volunteer mentors

What is Leading to Reading?

Leading to Reading is a free service for children in Grades 1-6 who can communicate in English and are reading and writing below their grade level. Children are encouraged to learn and practice their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

What happens at Leading to Reading?

Children are paired with volunteer mentors and meet at the library for a one hour weekly session. They receive one-to-one help and encouragement with their reading and writing skills and have the opportunity to play literacy-based games and activities. The sessions are fun, interactive, and an important part of building children's confidence and motivation in reading and writing.

When is Leading to Reading?

Schedules vary at each branch, but sessions are one hour per week and continue throughout the year, with various holiday breaks.

How does a child join?

Parents or guardians need to complete the application form which can be picked up or downloaded and submitted via email at any participating branch listed below. The child’s teacher is required to fill out the Teacher Assessment page as part of their application and must return it to the parent or guardian as a physical or scanned copy. The entire package must be submitted to the library.

Please note that enrollment is limited and not entirely based on first-come, first-served. Most parents apply in the fall but you may apply any time. There may be a waiting list.

Building confidence in Toronto’s children

Leading to Reading operates at the following branches:

Who volunteers?

Leading to Reading volunteers are Torontonians of all ages who are fluent in English and enjoy working with children. We also require volunteers to complete and submit a valid Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) form before starting. We also provide self-directed training to ensure volunteers are best equipped to support your child.

Volunteer recruitment is ongoing and we encourage any prospective volunteers to apply at tpl.ca/ltr

Your commitment to Leading to Reading

Parents of students enrolled in the service must sign an agreement of enrollment and attendance. If your child doesn't meet the conditions, the service staff will have to excuse your child from Leading to Reading. Children may participate for a maximum of 2 years, but participation may be shorter at the service coordinator's discretion.

How can parents help?

  • Please make sure your child arrives and is picked up on time. If you must cancel a session, always contact the volunteer and site monitor in advance.
  • Speak to your volunteer regularly; discuss your child's difficulties and progress in Leading to Reading
  • Feel free to ask questions, ask for help or give advice about your child.
  • We encourage you to support your child with their homework as our volunteers are not professional tutors, but are supported with training materials and guidance to help your child with their learning.
  • Encourage your child to read for fun and borrow library books that interest them.
  • Read to your child for at least 10 minutes every day and ask your child to do the same for you. When reading is enjoyable, kids go back for more.

Additional resources

  • Brainfuse
    Free online homework help for students in grades K-12.

We are grateful to the many donors who are supporting this vital children's literacy program at TPL.

Leading Donors:

In Memory of Penny Fine z”l
Friends of Toronto Public Library, North Chapter

Supporting Donors:

The Ralph M. Barford Foundation
The Joan and Clifford Hatch Foundation
Cathy Spoel & Michael MacMillan
The Earle and Janice O’Born Family Foundation

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