Date
Monday
Sep

September 8

World Literacy Day

Join the global celebration of World Literacy Day and learn how to make a difference in education around the world!

Yearly Date
September 8
Type
Day

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate World Literacy Day on September 8! This day has been celebrated since 1965 and is a great opportunity to take action against the global literacy crisis. By understanding the power of literacy and reading, we can help create a more equitable future for all. Not only does literacy give us access to knowledge and information, but it also helps us develop critical thinking skills and build strong communities. So join in on this special day by picking up a book or donating to your local library!

World Literacy Day Timeline

1965
Establishment of World Literacy Day
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established September 8 as International Literacy Day, highlighting the importance of literacy worldwide.
1970s
Rapid Expansion of Education
Across the globe, the drive for universal primary education increased during this decade, tying in with the wider efforts to promote literacy.
1990
World Declaration on Education
World Education Forum in Jomtien, Thailand emphasized lifelong learning, leading to greater focus on adult literacy and continuing education.
2000
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Declared
UN’s established MDGs which included the goal of achieving universal primary education, thus affirming global commitment to literacy.
2015
Sustainable Development Goals Announced
UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) included quality education as a key focus, amplifying the efforts to promote literacy around the world.
Present
Continued Advocacy for Global Literacy
The world continues to celebrate World Literacy Day every year, advocating for increased access to education and literacy programs worldwide.

How to Celebrate World Literacy Day

1

Read a book

Pick up a book and read it. This can be something you've been wanting to read for a while or something new. Reading is one of the best ways to improve your literacy.

2

Donate books

Look for local libraries, schools, or charities to donate books to. Donating books is a great way to spread literacy and help those who may not have access to books.

3

Write a story

Writing your own story is a great way to express yourself and practice literacy. It doesn't have to be long or complicated, just write about something that you enjoy.

4

Volunteer at a library

Volunteering at a local library is another great way to celebrate World Literacy Day. You can help out with shelving books, reading to children, or even helping adults learn how to read.

5

Host a book club

Organize a book club with friends or family members, either in person or online. This is a great way to discuss books and practice literacy with other people.

Why World Literacy Day is Important

A

It increases social and economic opportunities

Literacy is an important part of personal, social and economic development. It allows people to gain knowledge, access resources, make informed decisions and take part in productive activities that have the potential to lift them out of poverty and improve their wellbeing.

B

It helps build confidence

Having the ability to read and write empowers individuals by giving them the tools they need to become self-sufficient. When individuals feel confident in their abilities, it can lead to greater levels of participation in the classroom, workplace and society overall.

C

It encourages global understanding

Access to literacy skills helps break down barriers between cultures and nations. By learning about other societies through reading and writing, we can begin to understand each other on a deeper level, foster compassion, develop empathy and bridge our differences.

World 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