Spot the Dog Making Appearances at Needham Library

In 30 years, Spot has done it all, from starring in a series of bestselling books to appearing in interactive CD-ROMs. This week he is appearing at the Needham Library and kids in town are invited to celebrate his birthday.

It was 30 years ago this month that author Eric Hill fashioned the book "Where's Spot?" out of an idea that he got from his son. After the success of the first book, Spot's literary career continued with books like "Spot Goes to School" in 1984 and "Spot Visits his Grandparents" in 1996.

To mark his birthday, the curious yellow pup is making appearances in the Children's Room of the Needham Free Public Library and hoping to inspire reading among children at the same time.

"It's children's book week and Spot is so beloved, we thought he'd be a perfect character for children to meet," said Elaine Garnache of the Children's Room.

During the programs Garnache reads from Spot's books, engages kids in various games and then invites families to meet the book character. The series continues a line of character visits, which has included Curious George in the past.

Spot's visits began on Friday morning, when 72 guests came to the program, and continued on Wednesday evening. The final visit from Spot will take place on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Children will be privy to the same readings and games, as well as a chance to make a special crown in the crafts room.

Asked if the programs are designed to encourage reading in children, Garnache replied, "absolutely," adding that the interactive nature allows for more hands on learning. Meeting the character, she said, also allows children to make a special connection with the book they can read at home or in the library.

"It's really nice to see them meet the character and the smile they have seeing a story come to life," said Garnache.