Library’s reading club promotes much-needed community literacy

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July 21, 2010

Anonymous The Union-Recorder The Union-Recorder Wed Jul 21, 2010, 08:00 AM EDT

MILLEDGEVILLE — The Twin Lakes Library System recently wrapped up another successful Summer Reading Club with strong participation at all program levels.

Throughout the summer, children, teens and adults have taken part in the library’s programs and activities built around the annual Summer Reading Club theme. Each year the local libraries provide these types of programs and activities that encompass something for the entire family unit, promoting the benefits of literacy at all levels.

Of particular noteworthiness this year was the increase in participation in the adult reading club participants, setting a sound example for younger generations to follow on the importance of reading as a life-long activity and interest.

The Twin Lakes libraries not only provide these sorts of activities during the summer, however. Throughout the year, the library promotes learning and reading activities through weekly story hours, movie showings and, of course, through the annual fall library book fair.

In challenging financial times such as the one our state and many families are facing, it’s reassuring to know that the local libraries are still able to provide quality services and resources for the community to engage the entire family. No doubt, the economy cut into a number of local families’ summer vacation plans this year, but it’s good to know that they were exposed to fun and engaging learning opportunities during their downtime.

National data indicates that encouraging family literacy works to combat key issues related to poverty and improving life skills.

According to data provided by the National Center for Family Literacy, the estimated cost of illiteracy to taxpayers and businesses is $20 billion per year. Thirty-four million adults function at below basic literacy levels, meaning they are unable to complete simple literacy tasks such as filling out a job application, a deposit slip or reading a prescription label. Literacy directly impacts job skills and employability, increasing the importance of establishing the right foundation for young people and instilling in them the importance of developing strong literacy skills — valuable skills that can carry them further in life and in their careers.

As Baldwin County continues to strive toward the goal of becoming a Certified Literate Community, engaging the family unit in the reading activities is a vital component. It’s reassuring to know that the local libraries are helping to promote literacy at all levels in this regard.

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