Summer Reading Initiative Encourages Community Participation
The Lee County Library System's summer reading program, titled "Unearth a Story," runs through August 1 and invites readers of every age to explore new worlds without leaving their neighborhoods.
Participants can claim a free, brand‑new book at any branch while supplies last, and they can also enjoy a series of complimentary performances that blend storytelling, music and interactive activities.
The program’s central goal is to keep minds engaged during the summer months, combating the typical slide in academic skills that many students experience after a long break.
Children and teenagers who finish the reading challenge receive vouchers for two complimentary tickets to a Fort Myers Mighty Mussels baseball game, adding a fun community incentive to their literary journey.
Prize baskets filled with age‑appropriate books and art supplies are up for grabs, rewarding consistent readers with tangible rewards that encourage continued exploration.
Enrollment is simple: readers can sign up online through the free READsquared app, which guides them through four distinct age categories — from infants up to adults — or they can visit a branch to complete a paper‑based challenge, which is also offered in Spanish.
All of these elements combine to create a vibrant, community‑focused summer experience that celebrates reading as a shared, enjoyable adventure.