Literacy Lights the Path to Peace
Since 1967, International Literacy Day Celebrations have taken place annually to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights. Unesco.org/en/days/literacy.
Literacy allows us to
- Think Critically and Creatively
- Fully participate in society
- Better Understand the World
The facts are, however, that 20% of the adults in Delaware are at or below Literacy Level 1, and nearly half of all third-graders in Delaware cannot read at grade level. In 17 low-income zip codes in Wilmington, Dover, and western and central Sussex County, that rate increases to 63 percent. Many of Delaware’s children live in book deserts.
Fact – Adult literacy is family literacy. Children’s literacy rates, educational attainment, and employment opportunities are correlated to the literacy level of their parents (especially the mother). This contributes to an intergenerational cycle of poverty.
Access to Literacy and Library Services
In Delaware, our libraries are a cornerstone for literacy and learning across the lifespan. In addition to offering books and e-books for all levels of readers, the libraries also offer access to technology, educational resources, and enrichment programs. Our Libraries also serve as informational hubs that connect visitors to other services. Partnering with organizations like Read Aloud Delaware, Delaware Literacy, and Adult Basic Education (ABE) to break the intergenerational cycle.
This week on our blog, we are highlighting the efforts of Delaware libraries to support children and families through multiple pathways to literacy and equity.
Learn More at: https://libraries.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/123/2022/08/Final-literacy-report-8.8.pdf
