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• Reading Buddies pairs teenage volunteers ages 13-17 (Big Buddies) with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students (Little Buddies).
• The Buddies meet for an hour every week of the session. They read together then do fun reading-related activities.
• Reading Buddies helps boost young readers' skills and gets kids excited about reading and the library. It is not a tutoring service. 

• Applications for Fall session will be available in August. Fall session typically runs September through November. 
• Applications for Winter session will be available in November. Winter session typically runs February through March.
• Applications for Summer session will be available in April. Summer session typically runs June through August.

How do I apply to be a Big Buddy for the next session?

• Teen volunteers must complete both this Big Buddy application and this online City application.
• If you’ve turned in a City application before, email childrensreference@louisvilleco.gov to inquire about your volunteer status.

• Little Buddies must apply by completing this Little Buddy application.
• Space is limited.

Parents of Little Buddies are required to remain in the Library during the session.

How do I know if I've been accepted?

Big and Little Buddies are placed partly on a first-come, first-served basis. Program capacity depends on how many Big Buddies and Little Buddies apply. All applicants will be notified about their status in the program by January 13, 2026.

The Reading Buddies program is facilitated by Reading Buddies Coordinators under the supervision of library staff. The Reading Buddies Coordinators are teen volunteers with prior experience and expertise in running the Reading Buddies program.

For questions regarding the Reading Buddies program or to report that you will miss a session, please contact childrensreference@louisvilleco.gov.