International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day, traditionally observed annually on September 8, focuses attention on worldwide literacy needs. More than 780 million of the world’s adults (nearly two-thirds of whom are women) do not know how to read or write, and between 94 and 115 million children lack access to education.
IRA celebrates in Washington, DC
The Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 ILD event will be co-hosted by the Library of Congress (LOC) Center for the Book and held in the beautiful and historic Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Read the event invitation for more details.
For an update on the 2008 International Literacy Day launch of Reading Across Continents, see this article from the April/May 2009 issue of Reading Today.
IRA councils: How will you observe the day?
In past years IRA councils and individual members have found a variety of ways to observe International Literacy Day, from organizing themed readings in local schools and libraries to supporting national and international literacy programs. All year round, councils are invited to contact their local Rotary clubs to explore ways they can work together in support of literacy. See the list of Idea Starters for some interesting possibilities. Also see the Rotary-IRA Special Interest Group page for ideas on literacy projects.
ILD Kit: Fact sheets, celebration ideas and award certificate
Brochures and Fact Sheets
Idea Starters
Awards and Certificates