Reading with the Ranger Literacy Program Coming to Ocala Parks

The City of Ocala is bringing Reading with the Ranger to Ocala parks and community spaces.

By Amber Battillo June 3, 2026 4:58 pm

A small wooden free library box in a park with the words "BRING A BOOK TAKE A BOOK" painted on the side. A red bench sits nearby, and a covered picnic area with people is visible in the background. Trees and a white car are in the distance. — 352todayAmber Battillo/352todayReading with the Ranger literacy program is coming to Ocala for a summer of story times.

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Join the city for a summer reading series supporting childhood literacy. The City of Ocala is hosting its summer Reading with the Ranger literacy program beginning on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 2-3 p.m. Families can enjoy story time sessions for the children as City of Ocala Park Rangers read themed books.

This series will feature interactive read-aloud sessions where rangers will read stories to kids in various public parks and community spaces throughout Ocala. Some sessions will also contain small, interactive activities for hands-on learning with nature observations, movement games and more. Sessions will take place outdoors when whether permits in each setting, promoting outdoor reading.

All sessions will take place on Fridays from 2-3 p.m. with the first reading taking place at Tuscawilla Park, 800 NE Sanchez Ave. The next session will take place on June 12 at Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. Additional sessions are schedules for June 26 at Lillian Bryant Park, 2200 NW 17th Pl.; July 10 at Heritage Nature Conservancy, 2005 NE Third St.; July 17 at Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave. and July 24 at Citizens’ Circle, 151 SE Osceola Ave.

This family-friendly program is free to attend and open to the public to support literacy in the city. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and snacks for a comfortable reading experience.

Community

16 hours ago

Commissioners Approve New Contracts with Marion County Firefighters’ Union

The agreements represent a major investment in recruitment, retention, compensation and care for Marion County Fire Rescue.

Business

19 hours ago

These New Businesses Opened Their Doors in the North Central Florida Region in May

A hospital, a beloved chain and a new dog-friendly watering hole are among the 352’s new businesses.

Local

20 hours ago

Northbound Off-Ramp at I-75 and CR 484 in Marion County to Close Overnight

After closing the southbound exit at the interchange for a few days, the FDOT will do a few nights’ work on the opposite off-ramp.

Crime & Safety

14 hours ago

Woman Found Unconscious in Dunnellon Parking Lot, Charged with DUI with Minor in Vehicle

A Michigan woman was arrested on a DUI charge after deputies found her unconscious behind the wheel of a running SUV in a Dunnellon parking lot.

Community

2 days ago

Citrus County to Break Ground on New Animal Services Facility June 15

Citrus County will break ground June 15 on a new Animal Services facility in Lecanto, a project officials say will expand services and improve care for animals throughout the community.