Napa County Library Celebrates International Literacy Day amid Rising Illiteracy

On September 8, 2023, the Napa County Main Library prepares to commemorate International Literacy Day, an event established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966. The day is dedicated to raising awareness of literacy as both a human right and a passport to dignified living via the County of Napa.

Over the last two years, the world has seen an increase in literacy challenges, with a staggering 771 million young people and adults struggling to achieve basic literacy skills. The pandemic has left its mark on global education, causing learning losses, and increasing drop-out rates due to school closures and other significant disruptions.

In California, the need for literacy programs is ever more pertinent. A concerning 28 percent of the state's population is estimated to function at or below level 1 literacy, with the numbers pointing towards a grim state of affairs in young education: 69 percent of fourth graders face reading proficiency challenges, while 71 percent of eighth graders wrestle with math proficiency.

California Library Literacy Services, which has made commendable strides in combating adult and family illiteracy for over four decades, offers hope in the midst of disheartening statistics. By participating in adult literacy education programs, individuals benefit from increased employment opportunities, higher earning potential, and improved reading, writing, and numeracy skills.

This International Literacy Day, the Napa County Library's Literacy Center beckons community members to join their enriching activities and reaffirm the importance of reading. The day's agenda encompasses:

• 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Open House showcasing the diverse services that the center offers, alongside light refreshments
• 1-3 p.m.: Drop-in Crafts where visitors can create their own mini book, play literacy bingo, among other engaging pastimes.
• 3:30-3:45 p.m.: Pass the Book, a heartwarming exercise where attendees read a chapter or two before passing the book to the person next to them. And,
• 4-5:20 p.m.: Screening of “The Right to Read,” a poignant documentary produced by Levar Burton that tells the story of a brave activist, a teacher, and two families in their pursuit to ensure the right to read for the upcoming generation

All are welcome, and refreshments will be served as the community comes together to celebrate the power of literacy and its far-reaching impact on individuals and society.