ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. \u2014 We know reading is a vital skill for students and adults.<\/p>\n
This week in Florida, it’s Celebrate Literacy Week — designed to raise awareness about the importance of reading.<\/p>\n
WATCH BELOW:<\/p>\n
Learn more about these small libraries in this Treasure Coast city<\/p>\n
On Tuesday, WPTV highlighted the city of Port St. Lucie and their Little Free Library Program.<\/p>\n
You may have seen these decorated boxes at parks or around neighborhoods in the city. These are little libraries, filled with books for readers of all ages.<\/p>\n
WPTV learned the city started the program around six months ago, maintaining existing little libraries and accepting donations for new ones across the city.<\/p>\n
Neighbors said it’s an important tool for inspiring people to read.<\/p>\n
“They should put them everywhere,” said Leigh Yergler, who lives in Port St. Lucie. “Outside the city buildings, outside of even a Publix. Somewhere, people are frequenting.”<\/p>\n
WPTV dug into the research and found that Florida ranks below the national average for literacy skills, according to the Florida Literacy Coalition.<\/p>\n
The coalition also said one in four adults are at or below level one of literacy.<\/p>\n