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IFLA Guidelines for Library-based Literacy Programs: some practical suggestions

“The IFLA Section on Literacy and Reading is pleased to present some practical suggestions for library staff who would like to help our society become more literate. We believe that libraries are uniquely situated to promote literacy. Libraries may develop and staff their own programs or they may support literacy projects sponsored by other organizations.

 

The aims of these practical pointers are:

To encourage libraries to become involved in literacy programs.

To serve as an informal checklist for evaluating library-based programs that are already in place.

 

Our definition of literacy is broad. It includes the development and practice of reading, writing, and numeracy skills (skills related to numbers). These skills encourage the independence, curiosity and lifelong learning of individuals and groups. Such learners contribute greatly to the economic, social and cultural health of the communities and the nations in which they live.”