August 26th is National Dog Day!

Monday August 26th is National Dog Day. National Dog Day is a day to recognize our canine companions, hardworking service dogs, and many furry friends still in need of a home. People mark the day in a variety of ways. This includes advocacy, treating their pets, or adopting from or volunteering at a local pet shelter. At the Boston Public Library, we have a few other ideas of how to celebrate.

Look at cute photos of dogs. The Digital Commonwealth collections online might not be the first place you'd think of to get your daily dose of cuteness, but just look at these cuties!

Brush up on your service dog etiquette. Pets are not permitted in the library--we love them, but they're not allowed to join you when you visit us. However, at any of our branches you might encounter people who use service dogs for a variety of reasons. It's important to remember that these canines are doing an important job, even if they don't look like they're working. Here's a quick list of do's and don'ts to help get you started.

Let us help you research your new dog-related business idea. Whether you want to start your own rescue, shelter buddies reading program, or grooming business, the librarians in the Kirstein Business Library are equipped to help you get started. They can help you research other businesses in the area, funding sources, or set you up with a free legal consultation or business mentor. Learn more about what Kirstein has to offer on the library website.

Read a dog-themed book. (You knew that one was coming!) From poems written from a dog's point of view to memoirs of famous people's pets, we have a number of options for all kinds of readers. Here are a few suggestions, but feel free to ask a librarian for more!

I Could Chew on This

Dog Years

A Big Little Life

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Heart of Barkness

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time

Love That Dog