Sandy Frank often has trouble getting her Great Dane dog Percy to stand up and go outside.

But once a month, Frank utters a phrase to Percy that excites him, perking him up instantly: “Want to go to work?”

For Percy, who weighs 190 lb., work comes in the form of listening to young children read him stories at the Swampscott Public Library. On the third Wednesday of each month Percy and Frank stroll in and are met with dozens of children eager to tell Percy a tall tale.

One by one, children taking turns reading Percy their favorite short stories. Others pet him as he listens and they wait for their turn to read.

“Percy grew up at the service dog project in Ipswich,” said Frank. “Some people would bring their kids who needed to learn to read aloud without anyone correcting them.”

This inspired Frank to bring 5-year-old Percy to libraries. She said his extremely calm demeanor comforts children who are initially overwhelmed by his massive figure.

Percy also has experience in pet therapy programs and hospice care.

“He loves doing this,” Frank said. “He’s an old soul.”

Since Percy started coming to the Swampscott Public Library, a fan club has been growing, according to Director of Child Services Lisa Julien-Hayes.

Julien-Hayes said Percy’s presence can be beneficial to children in the community for a number of reasons. Some children may not have the confidence to read aloud in front of classmates or family members. Percy, however, serves as a good listener who lets them work through any struggles.

Julien-Hayes also said Percy has helped some children conquer their fear of dogs. She noted that few were scared the first time Percy visited but after just a short time with him, they understood the dog wouldn’t hurt anyone.

“He brings new faces to the library,” Julien-Hayes said. “Some kids only come in when Percy comes.”