A Tallahassee program is using storytime to connect children with real-life heroes in their own neighborhoods.WATCH FULL REPORT BELOW: Tallahassee program pairs firefighters with kids to build literacy and community bondsBooks Ladders partners with local fire departments to bring firefighters into schools, libraries and community spaces, where they read with children, answer questions and teach fire safety.The program was created by Edward Clark Jr., founder of Be Your Own Hero Motivational Network. Clark dresses as a superhero and uses interactive storytelling to get children excited about reading. Through Books Ladders, he is bringing firefighters into that mission as real-life heroes.Clark said he needs community members to help."I believe strongly that a community that invest in a child's literacy they will invest in a child's future a child that reads is an adult that thinks," Clark said.The stories used in the program focus on heroism, teamwork, safety and adventure. Every child leaves with a copy of the book and a small toy.Books Ladders is holding its Dine for Literacy event Monday, Sept. 14, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Texas Roadhouse on Capital Circle Northeast. The event is an opportunity for community members to help put more books into children's hands.This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website. Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime.Like us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram and X. ...read more read less