September 8

International Literacy Day

Celebrate International Literacy Day by reading a book, donating to literacy programs, or teaching someone in need - make a difference today!

Yearly Date
September 8
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

International Literacy Day on September 8 is a day to celebrate the power of literacy and to bring awareness to its importance. This day has been celebrated since 1965, when UNESCO declared it as an international observance in order to promote reading and writing around the world. It's a great way for us all to recognize how far we've come in terms of education, and also help those who are still struggling with learning how to read or write basic skills.

International Literacy Day Timeline

1965
UNESCO Makes Declaration
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared September 8 as International Literacy Day.
1967
First Observance
Worldwide observances of International Literacy Day commence, demonstrating the importance globally of reading and writing skills.
2000
Inclusion in Millennium Goals
Educational initiatives, including literacy, are included in the UN's eight Millennium Development Goals.
2015
Literacy in Sustainable Goals
UNESCO highlighted literacy as an essential part of the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to the eradication of poverty.
2020
Pandemic Impact Spotlighted
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, International Literacy Day highlighted the significance of digital literacy to ensure continuous learning in a difficult environmental context.

How to Celebrate International Literacy Day

1

Organize a readathon

Gather your friends, family and neighbors and organize a readathon. Have participants pledge to read for a certain amount of time or pages and then have them come together to celebrate their accomplishments and discuss what they've read.

2

Donate books

Find your local library or community center that accepts book donations and donate some of your old books. You can also support literacy by donating new books to underprivileged schools in your area.

3

Visit a bookstore

Head out to your favorite bookstore and browse around for new titles that pique your interest. You'll be helping support local businesses as well as promoting literacy.

4

Learn a new language

Learning a new language is a great way to improve literacy skills. Find resources online or take an actual language course so you can start reading, writing, and speaking in another language.

5

Volunteer at a library

Libraries offer many volunteer opportunities from helping with story time to teaching adults how to use computers. Volunteering at libraries helps promote the importance of reading and literacy in general.

Why International Literacy Day is Important

A

It promotes literacy education

International Literacy Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness for the need for literacy education around the world. This day serves as a reminder that literacy skills are essential to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to improve their lives.

B

It increases access to information

By promoting access to books, magazines, newspapers, and other reading material, International Literacy Day helps individuals gain access to information about health, disease prevention, economic opportunities, and more. This access of power gives people the ability to make changes in their own lives or community.

C

It empowers future generations

By encouraging literacy programs around the world, International Literacy Day gives younger generations the skills needed to succeed in school and beyond. It is also an opportunity for parents and educators to help foster a culture of lifelong learning, which can create positive outcomes throughout society.

International Literacy Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 7
Thursday
2024
Sep 7
Saturday
2025
Sep 7
Sunday
2026
Sep 7
Monday
2027
Sep 7
Tuesday