What is Literacy?

"Literacy" is an ever-expanding term and its definition tends to reflect the context in which literacy skills are used. The skills required to be successful in the past century are quite different from the skills that are required into today's world.

UNESCO states that literacy is a "human right, a tool of personal empowerment and a means for social and human development." (UNESCO. Literacy Portal).

The International Adult Literacy and Skills Survey (IALSS) defines literacy as "the ability to understand and employ printed information in daily activities at home, at work and in the community - to achieve one's goals, and to develop one's knowledge and potential."


Some of the types of literacy that have been identified are:

• Early/Basic Literacy
• Adult Literacy 
• Numeracy
• English as Second Language (ESL)
• Visual Literacy (understanding and appreciation of art, film, theatre)
• Digital Literacy (The "New" Literacy)

However literacy is defined, we know that reading, by its very nature, promotes understanding, compassion, empathy and tolerance. It's our best weapon in our fight against ignorance, bigotry, despair and the darkness of the human soul.