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.<\/p>\n
It reported that this year\u2019s Summer Reading Program, themed \u201cUnearth a Story,\u201d continued that tradition by connecting thousands of residents with books, educational programs and community experiences designed to spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning.<\/p>\n
\u201cLibraries have a unique ability to turn access into opportunity,\u201d Library Director Mindi Simon said. \u201cThis summer, thousands of people across Lee County used their libraries to read, learn and connect. That\u2019s the lasting value of a public library: creating opportunities that strengthen individuals, families and our community.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The library system provided the following numbers:<\/p>\n
READING<\/p>\n
\u2013 13,385 readers participated<\/p>\n
2.2% increase from 2025
\n3,513 online challenges
\n9,872 paper challenges<\/p>\n
\u2013 14,661 free books distributed to children and teens<\/p>\n
PROGRAMS, EVENTS<\/p>\n
\u2013 486 library programs offered<\/p>\n
\u2013 19,228 attendees at Summer Reading Program library programs<\/p>\n
7.2% increase from 2025<\/p>\n
\u2013 11 kickoff celebrations welcomed 3,989 participants<\/p>\n
COMMUNITY OUTREACH<\/p>\n
\u2013 107 outreach visits to camps, community centers, parks and other locations<\/p>\n
\u2013 13,069 people reached through outreach programming<\/p>\n
TEEN SUMMER OF SERVICE<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u2013 784 volunteer service hours completed<\/p>\n
\u2013 287 community service projects completed<\/p>\n
\u2013 Three organizations supported<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
The Lee County Library System has 13 branches, including the Captiva Memorial Library.<\/p>\n
For more information, visit www.leelibrary.net<\/a> or call 239-479-4636.<\/p>\n The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.<\/p>\n