If you spend any time on this blog at all, I like to think my passion for reading speaks for itself. I strongly believe that it has the power to change the world, but I'll spare you that whole shpiel for today (though I do encourage you to check out my mission statement if you haven't already).
For many adults all over the world, reading is a luxury, and I don't think this is something that's talked about enough. So today, that's exactly what we're gonna do.
“Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope. It is a tool for daily life in modern society. It is a bulwark against poverty, and a building block of development, an essential complement to investments in roads, dams, clinics and factories. Literacy is a platform for democratization, and a vehicle for the promotion of cultural and national identity.”
― Kofi Annan
While researching this topic, the literacy rates for individual countries were somewhat inconsistent. Therefore, I've chosen not to include them because I don't know which ones are correct, and I don't want to spread misinformation.
One statistic that was consistent across the board was the global literacy rate, which, as of 2023, stands at 87%. Overall, great news!
However, the lines between illiteracy and literacy are a bit unclear. For example, in the United States alone, over 30 million adults aren't able to read or write above a third grade (that's Year 4, for UK folks) level. While technically, they are able to read and write, and therefore are literate, they aren't reading or writing at their full potential.
Not to mention the other 13% of the world's population.
Imagine the ideas, the contributions to society, and the solutions to problems that the world has likely missed out on due to people not having the knowledge or resources to properly express them.
"What if the cure for cancer was trapped inside the mind of someone who can't afford an education?"
— Unknown (if you happen to know the source, please let me know!)
So, what can we do about it?
Little Free Library: You may have seen one of these in your neighborhood, local park, or near a local business, but many people aren't familiar with the incredible organization behind them. LFL is a non-profit that aims to build communities, improve literacy, and provide free, 24/7 access to reading materials.
Anyone can browse the shelves, taking and leaving books as they please. I've personally found some amazing reads that I wouldn't have normally picked because of Little Free Libraries, and it's a neat way to share books that I no longer need in my collection.
Each library is registered, or "chartered," through their website, so there's a map showing the exact location of each library. Try doing a search for your neighborhood or local area, and if you have one close by, pay it a visit!
No luck? If there isn't a Little Free Library in your area, consider starting your own. The startup process is surprisingly simple, and you can enlist the help of family and friends to decorate and maintain it. It could be a great way to connect with your neighbors and community, and provide access to books for those who may not have access otherwise.
Traditional Libraries: I know, I know. I've talked about the importance of libraries plenty of times before, but I'm still gonna do it again. Libraries have been providing free access to books since the 1800's (yes, really), and they're just as important in today's society as they were back then.
While a lot of library programs seem to focus on kids, many modern libraries provide adult literacy resources, classes on computer skills, and so much more. These things can make it possible for someone to get a job, bring their ideas to life, and shape a better future for themselves and their families.
Of course, every library is different, and some have more resources and funding than others, but each library is an integral part of our society and we should be supporting them in any way we can.
If you haven't already, pay your local library a visit! Sign up for a library card, and if they have one, sign up for their newsletter to keep up with what's happening.
ProLiteracy: Dedicated to helping adults overcome literacy and language barriers with dignity and respect, ProLiteracy has been helping people transform their lives for over 60 years.
There are free online courses and webinars that can be accessed directly through their website, and they also work with partners all over the globe to provide on-site education.
Their site also lists some great ways to get involved, but even just sharing their cause could help the right person find the resources they need.
Literacy for the Justice-Involved and Recently Released: Based on statistics from the Prison Literacy Connection, the illiteracy rate among incarcerated adults is 75%. However, studies have shown that inmates who participate in correctional education programs are 43% less likely to become re-offenders than those who do not. I won't bore you with too many statistics, but you can certainly check out the study if you're curious.
The gist of it is that there seems to be a clear link between literacy and improved lives for current or former inmates.
The American Library Association has a great list of resources and organizations dedicated to helping the incarcerated and recently released to build a brighter future.
“Literacy is a fundamental life skill, one that serves as a portal to knowledge and a lifetime of opportunity.”
― Story Shares
Of course, I recognize how important it is to get books into the hands of kids, and I don't intend to detract from that in any way. Teaching kids to read and to love reading has always been a cause near and dear to my heart.
However, adult literacy isn't talked about nearly as much as kids', nor does it receive the same amount of funding and support. I chose to highlight it today because I think it's a cause worth highlighting, and I hope reading this has encouraged you to support it.
I'd also love to hear your thoughts on the subject! If you haven't already, join my Discord to chat about all things book-related with myself and some other lovely members. We'd be thrilled to have you!
'•.¸♡ Thanks for reading! ♡¸.•'