In August, Eugene Public Library and Springfield Public Library will host free “See to Read” vision screenings for children ages three to seven years old. The screenings are non-invasive and take only a few minutes. This service is provided through a partnership among the Oregon State Elks Association, Oregon State Lions Association, and Oregon public libraries.
The drop-in sessions at Eugene Public Library will be held Saturday, August 2, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Bethel Branch (in English and Spanish); Saturday, August 2, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Downtown Library; Wednesday, August 13, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the Downtown Library; and Thursday, August 14, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Sheldon Branch.
Springfield Public Library will host drop-in screenings on Saturday, August 2, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Thursday, August 14, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Starting this year, all Oregon children age seven or younger are required to have their vision screened before starting school or preschool. The purpose is to check for a number of eye diseases that can be treated successfully if caught early.
If the free, initial screening raises concerns, a full eye examination will be recommended. The most commonly found diseases are refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism; and amblyopia, also known as “lazy eye.” Early detection provides the best opportunity for effective, inexpensive treatment, which translates to the best chance for successful learning as school begins.
For more information about See to Read vision screenings, visit www.seetoread.net or contact Eugene Public Library at 541-682-8316 or Springfield Public Library at 541-726-3766.