‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’ -- International Literacy Day 2023
International Literacy Day is an annual celebration of the importance of literacy as a human right worldwide, and to advance the international literacy agenda towards a more literate society. Observed on September 8 this year, 2023 marks the mid-point towards the 2030 Global Agenda for Sustainable Development and the subsequent developmental goals. Countries and partners of the international community that committed to these developments eight years ago resolved to achieve this agenda to lead towards a world of peace, inclusivity, justice, and freedom from hunger, inequality, and poverty.
According to the World Literacy Foundation, illiteracy has significant health, economic, and social impacts. Low levels of literacy are reflected in poor health behaviors, a lack of understanding of health-related choices, and a lack of access to healthcare. Illiterate people can also struggle with daily tasks, including reading medical and food labels, understanding traffic signs, and filling out applications for jobs and education forms for their children.
Learn more about the Alachua County Library District's Literacy Department, and any volunteer opportunities available for aiding with adult literacy.
The Literacy Program offers one-on-one tutoring and small classes for adults. We can help you sign up for a library card and show you how to use library books and databases. We also can connect you to other programs in the library and the community.
There are a variety of library-hosted Book Clubs available at library branches. Host your book club with one of our Book Club Kits. Search for a new book to read with NoveList Plus. Alachua County residents can use their library card to learn a new language through Transparent Language.
Conversation Club: Adult English Language Learners
Mondays, 12:30 p.m. at Tower Road Branch
Thursdays, 10 a.m. on Zoom
Fridays, 10 a.m. at Millhopper Branch
Make connections and increase your English fluency at Conversation Club. We will discuss topics including cultural traditions, hobbies, and current events. This is a great opportunity to practice your English in a small group setting. Let your voice be heard - come chat with us!
English for Families
Saturdays, 10 a.m. at Headquarters Library
Join us at the Headquarters Library every Saturday in September for the "English for Families" program. “English for Families” is a multi-week series of interactive English classes for families that focuses on developing vocabulary and literacy skills through story reading. Each class features a lesson centered around a children’s book that participating families get to take home with them as well as a hands-on activity and/or game and refreshments. These classes target families with children from 6 years to 12 years old although all are welcome. We encourage families to commit to the full 5 week session and registration is required. We will be holding "English for Families" at the Alachua Branch in the spring, exact dates are TBD, so keep an eye out!
Sign Language: Learn with Liz
Tuesdays, 12 p.m. at Cone Park Branch
Learn basic ASL along with Liz the Librarian. We will learn from videos and practice together.
Spanish Conversation Club
2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. at Millhopper Branch
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
- Adult Library Programs
GED Study Sessions: Working Toward Success!
Wednesdays, 2 p.m. at Headquarters LibraryCome work on the skills you need to pass the GED. These sessions will give individuals preparing for the GED an opportunity to ask for help or advice from an experienced GED prep teacher. Topics covered in each session will be tailored to the needs of the attendees. You don't have to go it alone, we're here for support!
Writing Your Life Story
Thursday, Sept. 7, 1 p.m. at Millhopper BranchFor those who are interested in writing their life story for family and friends. Come share ideas and get encouragement from others.
Writer's Alliance of Gainesville: Cracking the Story Code
Sunday, Sept. 10, 2:30 p.m. at Millhopper BranchJoin us at 2:30 pm for our monthly meeting of the Writers' Alliance of Gainesville. The month's speaker is Cassie Dandridge Selleck author of "The Pecan Man."
The Writers' Alliance of Gainesville (WAG) promotes encourages and supports aspiring and experienced regional writers. This goal is accomplished via monthly meetings public readings small critique groups a literary journal writers' contests and collaborations with schools and civic organizations to foster creative expression through the written word. Sponsored by the Writer's Alliance of Gainesville
Reading is a key component of childhood literacy, affecting brain development that will follow them into adulthood. Exposing children to reading and words as early as possible significantly increases their chances of succeeding in literacy later in life.
Regularly scheduled reading programs for children are available across the Alachua County libraries. Check the event calendar for Story Time, Music & Movement, Baby Time, and Read with a Dog. Alachua County residents can use their library card to access Learning Express, Tutor.com, and NoveList K-8 Plus.
Teen Journaling
Thursday, Sept. 14 and 28, 4 p.m. at High Springs Branch
Join us for journaling! Bring your own journal or take one of ours and fill it with whatever you like. There will be journaling prompts and guidance if you need it, or simply a relaxed space to create and write.
Teen Journaling
Saturday, Sept. 30, 2 p.m. at Micanopy Branch
A personal journal can be a great tool for growing your creativity, getting organized, and exploring personal themes. We’ll talk about different styles of journaling, play with some bullet journal templates, and take some time to write, draw, and doodle. Paper and art supplies will be provided, we encourage you to bring your own journal.