“Lighthouses, Libraries & Literacy” brings together local gems and community partners. You’ll catch the Lee County Library System and the Johann Fust Library Foundation working together with the lighthouse to showcase the rich coastal history and spark young readers’ imaginations.

The afternoon’s standout? Papyrus II, the beloved book boat from the Johann Fust Library Foundation. This boat has a legacy of delivering books across the barrier islands, a tradition you can experience firsthand. Families can hop aboard the Papyrus II, check out the Book Bike that serves up library books on-the-go, and even design their own bookmarks to take home.

Activities fill every corner of the event: story time every fifteen minutes, hands-on creative stations focused on the coast’s heritage, and chances to get a brand-new library card right on site.

All of this unfolds with sweeping views at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, inside Florida State Park. The mix of education and scenery turns a Saturday outing into something special.

This learning day is just one part of Suncoast Remake Learning Days, which stretches from April 18 to May 2, 2026, with over 380 free events for families across the region.

The post Set Sail for Literacy: Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Hosts Free Family Learning Day on April 18 appeared first on Englewood Review.

The Lee County Library System is back with its 27th annual reading festival on Saturday, March 7, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

This year, the library has lined up 26 authors, all presenting live on their author stages. Several authors have topped The New York Times bestseller list.

And there’s plenty more. The festival’s free. You’ll find readings, crafts, food trucks, and many activities. Every kid and teen who shows up gets to pick a free book to take home, no strings attached. 

This year, they’re making it even easier to meet your favorite author. Instead of waiting in line, just hop onto the festival app or scan a QR code on-site to join a virtual queue. You’ll get a text when it’s your turn for a book signing, so you can actually enjoy the festival instead of standing around.

You’ll find all the action on First Street in the Fort Myers River District. For more information, check out readfest.org.

The post A Weekend of Words: Southwest Florida Reading Festival Returns to Lee County Library appeared first on Englewood Review.