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EPHRATA — The Ephrata police aren’t only patrolling the streets for crime, officers are also making time for reading with students at elementary schools.

Patrol Sgt. Glenn Maryott organized the “Blue Crew” reading program to help kids become more familiar with police as well as participate in a learning activity.

“We are trying to provide not only a positive presence to the children but emphasize that reading is important and also fun,” Maryott said. “And it helps the officers with their public speaking.”

Officers began reading to students at Grant Elementary School and Columbia Ridge Elementary School at the beginning of November and plan to continue the program for the rest of the year.

All 12 officers, Maryott and Chief of Police Mike Warren are participating and will take turns reading throughout the year.

So far, five officers have read books such as “Little Princess,” “There’s a Tiger in My Closet,” and “The Amazing Turkey Race” to elementary students.

Officers can bring their own books to read or choose a favorite from the classroom.

“Hopefully the kids like it,” Maryott said. “Reading here is a good thing because I don’t remember anyone doing that when I was in school.”

“The more positive role models we have the better,” said Grant Elementary principal Shannon Criss, “The kids love that a police officer comes to read to them.”