TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – WCTV is partnering with Midtown Reader and the Community Foundation of North Florida for another year of the “Let’s Read” initiative, aimed at expanding access to books for students in Title I schools in Leon County.
The charitable program focuses on promoting community literacy by bringing free book fairs directly to Title I schools. The initiative is built around a simple idea: ensuring every child has the opportunity to take books home.
“We know the data on third graders who don’t read on grade level by the end of third grade, and it’s not good,” said Sally Bradshaw, owner of Midtown Reader.
Bradshaw emphasized the long-term impact of literacy, noting that reading proficiency by third grade is a key indicator of future academic success. Studies show strong reading skills are linked to higher graduation rates and reduced crime.
“Our goal is to make book fairs in Title I schools a very similar experience that so many of us grew up with, exciting, colorful, fun and imaginative,” she said.
While reading at home plays a critical role in a child’s development, not every student has access to books outside the classroom. Midtown Reader manager Caylee Wilson said the “Let’s Read” initiative is designed to help close that gap.
“We’re growing their comprehension skills, their critical thinking skills, and giving them confidence and creativity, while also helping them see themselves in the stories they’re reading,” Wilson said.
Wilson attended a Title I elementary school and understands the challenges of limited access to books. She said that experience motivates her involvement in the initiative.
Through donations, the Let’s Read campaign is funding three book fairs at Leon County Title I schools. The goal is for every student who attends the fair to be able to select and take home two books at no cost.
The first book fair will be at Oak Ridge Elementary School on February 24th.
Community members interested in supporting the Let’s Read initiative can donate to help ensure every participating student leaves with books of their own.
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