Library system concludes summer reading program
Every summer, the Lee County Library System helps children maintain reading skills, introduces families to new learning experiences and inspires people of all ages to discover something new.
It reported that this year’s Summer Reading Program, themed “Unearth a Story,” continued that tradition by connecting thousands of residents with books, educational programs and community experiences designed to spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning.
“Libraries have a unique ability to turn access into opportunity,” Library Director Mindi Simon said. “This summer, thousands of people across Lee County used their libraries to read, learn and connect. That’s the lasting value of a public library: creating opportunities that strengthen individuals, families and our community.”
From June 1 through Aug. 1, the libraries welcomed readers of all ages to participate in free programs, explore new ideas and celebrate the joy of reading together.
Inspired by the theme, library staff presented programs celebrating discovery through science, history, storytelling, creativity and hands-on learning. Participants explored everything from dinosaurs and archaeology to literacy, art and family activities, discovering that every visit to the library offers a new chance to learn.
The library system provided the following numbers:
READING
– 13,385 readers participated
– 14,661 free books distributed to children and teens
PROGRAMS, EVENTS
– 486 library programs offered
– 19,228 attendees at Summer Reading Program library programs
– 11 kickoff celebrations welcomed 3,989 participants
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
– 107 outreach visits to camps, community centers, parks and other locations
– 13,069 people reached through outreach programming
TEEN SUMMER OF SERVICE
Teen Summer of Service is a partner program that offers teens the chance to earn community service hours through a six-week, virtual program series.
– 784 volunteer service hours completed
– 287 community service projects completed
– Three organizations supported
This year’s program was made even stronger through a partnership with Suncoast Credit Union, which helped extend learning beyond library walls and gave readers who participated in the paper challenge, an offline option to the program, free Mighty Mussels tickets.
The Lee County Library System has 13 branches, including the Captiva Memorial Library.
For more information, visit www.leelibrary.net or call 239-479-4636.
The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.