Understanding Literacy

Literacy is more than just reading. It's an individual's ability to read, write, speak, compute and solve problems.

This means reading labels on prescription bottles and understanding the directions on how much
to take. This includes balancing a checkbook, basic math, comprehension and communicating
in English.

In the home, literacy skills promote close family interactions, informed decision-making and lifelong learning. In school, strong literacy skills result in more capable students and higher levels of achievement.

Ultimately, healthy communities and families have literacy at their core, with informed and engaged residents who are better equipped to recognize and overcome civic, social and economic challenges.