Literacy, A Necessity for Sustainable Societies

On Sept. 8, the world will mark the 48th annual International Literacy Day in reminder that reading, writing and basic math remain an elusive target for nearly 800 million adults around the globe, including approximately 23,000 adults in the local community. The Jack L. Hill Lifelong Learning Center at the San Bernardino Public Library is part of a national network of organizations that work every minute of every day to end the adult literacy crisis. According to ProLiteracy, the largest membership organization advancing the cause of adult literacy and basic education in the nation, more than 36 million adults in the U.S. lack the most basic literacy skills, and 15 percent of Americans without a diploma don't have jobs. "About one in six adults are still not literate, and approximately 67.4 million school-aged children are not enrolled in school," said Paula Miller, literacy program coordinator. "Here at home, in our own community, we know that 31 percent of adults experience literacy issues in their lives. Literacy helps families be healthier and safer and provides people sustainable opportunities to support themselves through work, contributing ultimately to the economic growth of our region and our country." "Low literacy costs the nation more than two hundred billion dollars each year in lost productivity, as well as an additional one to two billion in health and safety issues," said Kevin Morgan, president and CEO of ProLiteracy. "Every dollar spent on adult literacy and education provides returns to the country through higher employment, added tax revenues, reduced welfare payments, and less crime." In recognition of International Literacy Day, the San Bernardino Public Library-Jack L. Hill Lifelong Learning Center will be receiving a Proclamation from San Bernardino City Mayor Carey Davis. This will give awareness to and remember that "Literacy and Sustainable Societies" is the key to the development of skills that are necessary for sustainable societies.