I had to grin after reading your post as I too have had the same question. I began playing three years ago (age 47) and like you, I have the Gibson L&M course. It wasn't until later that I found Guitar Tricks. Anyway, in my humble opinion "yes" you should learn to read the notes as you progress. Is it required? No, but in my case it has really helped to know the basics of note reading and the other parts of reading music. Now, when a friend comes over or I am someplace (like church) and someone asks me to play with them, I can use their music and have a blast. I have found it useful for playing the melody to simple songs even if I don't really know them. So, my .2 cents worth says yes, learn to read music as you are progressing.
Jim