Pictured: Bernie's Book Bank has been hand-delivering free books to kids who need them most since 2009. Provided photo.

Reading is the single most important skill a child needs to succeed in life. Bernie’s Book Bank is helping to fuel that success by sourcing, processing and distributing free, high-quality books to children who need them most. Founded in 2009 by Brian Floriani and inspired by his father, Dr. Bernard P. Floriani, the organization believes better futures begin with books.

This summer, the organization’s Suncoast chapter has teamed up with Gecko’s Hospitality Group to expand access to books for local children through a community-wide summer book drive. The initiative launched June 15 at Gecko’s Sarasota restaurants and will extend to Manatee County locations beginning July 1. Donations of new or gently used children’s books for readers from birth through sixth grade will be accepted through July 31. Donation boxes are located near the front entrance of participating Gecko’s restaurants, making it easy for guests and community members to contribute.

The Summer Book Drive aligns with Gecko's Hospitality Group's long-standing commitment to supporting local schools, families and nonprofit organizations. By serving as convenient collection sites, Gecko's locations make it easy for guests and community members to support literacy efforts throughout the region.

"Some of my favorite childhood memories involve getting lost in a good book. That's part of what inspired me to pursue a future in library science. Knowing that a book sitting on someone's shelf could become a child's new favorite story makes this drive really special," shares Serena Pearsall, a server at Gecko's Hillview location.

"At Gecko's, we're fortunate to serve a community that genuinely cares about helping others," adds General Manager of Gecko's Fruitville location, Kyle Caledrone. "Whether someone donates one book or a whole box, every contribution has the potential to make a meaningful impact for a local child."

Books collected during the drive will be distributed to children throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Bernie’s Book Bank Suncoast currently serves 25 Title I schools, along with organizations including Children First Head Start and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. Each child receives four books annually.

“We know that children are far more likely to become lifelong readers when they have books of their own at home,” said Amy Bott, executive director of Bernie’s Book Bank Suncoast. “Partnerships like this help ensure more children have access to books that inspire them to learn, dream and grow.”

Pictured: Bernie's Book Bank has been hand-delivering free books to kids who need them most since 2009. Provided photo.