State parks promoting literacy

By: JCFloridan Staff | Jackson County Floridan
Published: September 02, 2010

September is shaping up as a great month for avid readers in Jackson County.

As the Jackson County library system kicks off its full month of amnesty for overdue books, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced several special events in state parks, designed to promote reading across the state.

Florida Caverns State Park will welcome Smokey the Bear on Saturday, Sept. 11, as an ambassador for Florida Literacy Month.

He will help park personnel with several activities for childrenand their families.

His visit comes the day after another special literacy event in parks all across Florida.

In conjunction with International Literacy Day on Sept. 8 and National Library Card Sign-up Month, gate entrance to all of Florida’s state parks will be free on Friday, Sept. 10 through Sunday, Sept. 12 for visitors who bring a library card, library book or who donate a new or gently used family book.

“Florida Literacy Month is a perfect reminder that reading and writing can be enjoyed in many settings, including the outdoors,” Florida State Parks Director Donald Forgione said. “Reading a nature-themed book at a Florida State Park is one example of an exciting way for students and adults alike to learn about the environment while improving literacy skills.”

Partners in the Florida Literacy Month celebration include the Florida Department of Education, Florida Department of State, the Florida Literacy Coalition, the Florida Lottery, Volunteer USA and local libraries, schools and reading programs statewide.

“I applaud the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for providing a unique learning opportunity for all of our families,” Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith said. “As we focus on returning to the classrooms this year, Literacy Month serves as an excellent reminder to continue sharing our passion for reading to students of all ages.”

In 2009, nearly 8,000 people participated in Literacy Month, donating more than 1,300 books to libraries, schools and literacy organizations. This year, Florida State Parks and the Florida Lottery are distributing 50,000 bookmarks to libraries and state parks throughout Florida.