FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

CONTACT:    LEE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM
                    Heather O'Connell, Public Information Coordinator
                    (941) 479-4629 Office
                    (941) 479-4631 Fax

 

Lee County Libraries Celebrate International Literacy Week September 4-8.

You'll see something different this week at all Lee County Libraries: balloons, flowers and displays highlighting the Library System's dedication to improving Literacy in our community.

The Lee County Library System joins with other agencies to combat illiteracy and help adults seeking to learn to read. Adults wanting to improve their basic reading and writing skills can find appropriate materials on the Library's "READY shelves." This special collection of books, videos and audio cassettes also has materials for tutors, along with math skills resources, GED preparation books and materials to help newcomers learn English.

Thanks to a federally funded Library Services and Technology grant, the Library's Crossroads Literacy Project is working with other agencies in the county to offer classes to "English as a Second Language" students. For more information, contact the Literacy office at 461-5885.

International Literacy Day has been celebrated every September 8, since it was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1965.

Here are some ways you can help celebrate:

    Share your enthusiasm for a book with a child or teenager.

    Volunteer to read to patients in a hospital or nursing home.

    Join book discussions and attend programs at your library.

    Consider volunteering to help children or adults master reading skills.

    Invite a friend to visit to the library with you.

    Give a book as a gift.

    Re-read a favorite book.

    Learn about and support local literacy programs.

For more information call the number above or the Literacy office at 461-5885.