A Manchester Libraries “Fairytail”: Nya the Train Dog Visits Central Library

Last Friday we had a really special guest in Manchester Central Library’s children library: children and parents were surprised and delighted to receive a visit from Nya, Transpennine Express (TPE) official therapy dog!

Nya, a blue German Shepherd who just turned seven last Friday, has been officially registered with Pets As Therapy by her owner, TPE Safeguarding and Crime Prevention Lead Stephen O’Callaghan. She officially started her new role in May last year, making TPE the first train operator to have its own therapy dog. Her job is to support passengers who may be anxious about travelling.

In addition to her role, she’s now also a newly published “pawthor”! Inspired by Nya’s popularity with children, Stephen has written Nya the Train Dog: A Tale of Safety and Smiles. This beautiful picture-book for children under 10 is a gentle story that introduces simple safeguarding and rail safety messages through Nya’s real-life adventures.

We were very excited that Nya took time out of her birthday celebrations to visit Manchester Central Library’s children’s library. Not only children were encouraged to cuddle her and take photos with her, but they were also able to pick up a free copy of her brand-new children’s book, much to everyone’s delight.

Nya’s visit to Manchester Central Library was part of our School Holidays programme. Visit Library Live to find out what we have in store for the rest of the week!