8 Sep – International World Literacy Day

International Literacy Day is celebrated annually by the International Reading Association (IRA) and is designed to focus attention on literacy issues. IRA estimates that 780 million adults, nearly two-thirds of whom are women, do not know how to read and write. They also estimate that 94—115 million children worldwide do not have access to education. International Literacy Day is just one way the Association strives to increase literacy around the world.

This year, IRA and NASA have partnered to promote the theme “Lift Off to Literacy,” which inspires students to build an out-of-this-world literacy habit. Visit the ILD website to pledge your participation in our 60-for-60 mission: adding 60 seconds of literacy activities for 60 days. You’ll receive an activity kit of 60 cross-curricular ideas and an entry to win a prize pack of NASA goodies! Explore the website further to discover printable materials for your classroom (including a Spanish version of this year’s poster) and a digital kit of badges to share the love ILD.

Join the global celebration, and be sure to let the International Reading Association know how you celebrate. Share pictures and videos to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (using the official hashtag #ILD14), or send them to ILD@reading.org.