Lauren Rivera 
In late May, The Hoboken Girl introduced readers to the Hoboken school district’s newest member: Georgie, a certified school-based therapy dog, who will serve as another emotional resource for students during the 2025-2026 school year. And now, outside the classroom, Mile Square residents can connect with another therapy dog during Hoboken Public Library’s Therapy Dog Story Time. Riley Maverick Mills, an English Cream Golden Retriever who her owner, Lindsay Mills, calls “the most gentle angel,” volunteers at the library every month, providing emotional support to children learning to read. Read on for what to know about Riley and the Hoboken Public Library’s Therapy Dog Story Time program.
Photo Credit: Lindsay Mills
About Therapy Dog Story Time
Riley, a certified therapy dog since March 2025, volunteers at the Hoboken Public Library, located at 500 Park Avenue, on one Saturday a month at the library’s Therapy Dog Story Time program. The program is designed for early readers, aged six and above. This free program helps children practice their reading skills and gain confidence while in a supportive environment. Riley provides an added layer of emotional support, listening peacefully and happily accepting belly rubs from anyone who offers.
Photo Credit: Lindsay Mills
“It is incredible to watch how kids react to dogs,” Lindsay shared with HG. “The kids that come to events light up when they are around her.” With the help of Riley, Lindsay says that children in this program learn how to overcome their fears by taking baby steps toward their reading goals.
Read More: Meet Georgie, Hoboken Public Schools’ New Therapy Dog
In just three months, Riley’s presence in this program is already having a positive effect. Lindsay shared that one of the program’s attendees read aloud for the first time this past Saturday. “That’s always going to be my [proudest] moment,” she said. “I was so proud of her, and it is a perfect example of what the program can do!”
Photo Credit: Lindsay Mills
The next Therapy Dog Story Time takes place on July 19th from 2PM to 3PM in the Story Time Room. While registration is available, it isn’t required. All that attendees need to bring is their love for books and dogs. Those looking to join can visit Riley’s Instagram for information on future dates or the library’s events page.
About Riley
Riley has been a therapy dog since March 2025 and attended her first library event in April. She never had professional training, and passed the certification test on the first try, Lindsay told HG. “I work with her, but she is naturally just a very well-behaved dog.”
Photo Credit: Lindsay Mills
Along with the Hoboken Public Library, locals can occasionally find Riley at Hudson County Community College, as well as local retirement homes and hospitals in the near future.
When she’s not helping children grow comfortable with reading, Riley enjoys meeting new people on her daily walks and going to the beach. “She wants to say hello to everyone she passes on the street, and loves to play with other pups,” she said. “Her favorite place is the beach, but [she] likes to go everywhere just to be included (out to dinner, dog bars, etc!).”
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