Literacy
Literacy—The ability to understand, interpret, create, communicate, and compute using printed and written materials. A continuum of learning that enables individuals to achieve goals, develop knowledge and potential, and participate fully in society. (from the United National Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization)
As our world relies more and more on technology, and society is bombarded with text in a wide array of formats, the ability to read is more critical than ever. Children who fall behind when learning to read often become adults with literacy problems. Learning to read as an adult can be a challenging process due to work, family, and other pressing commitment—however, the rewards can be life changing. As one adult learner wrote, “I’ve changed for the better and I’ve come a long way. I read with confidence. I feel better about myself. I see myself as a different person, still being challenged, but now working through it, not running away like before.”
ODL partners with libraries, non-profits and other organizations across Oklahoma to promote literacy.
The mission of the ODL's Literacy Resource Office is to provide leadership, resources, training, and information to Oklahoma’s library and community-based literacy network.
The Oklahoma Department of Libraries has championed the cause of adult literacy since 1983. ODL’s Literacy Resource Office (LRO) provides resources, leadership, and technical assistance to library and community-based literacy programs throughout the state. Additionally, LRO coordinates several statewide literacy initiatives.
Proud Member of Oklahoma Literacy Coalition and ProLiteracy.
For Kids & Young Adults
For Adults
March
March 2: Read Across America Day
April
Annual Observance of National Financial Literacy Month
Adult Education & Family Literacy Week
National Volunteer Week
September
Annual Observance of National Literacy Month
September 8: Annual Observance International Literacy Day
October
Annual Observance of Health Literacy Month
Annual Observance of LD Awareness Month
November
Annual Observance of Family Literacy Month
November 1: National Family Literacy Day
Oklahoma Links
- Find your local literacy program
- Oklahoma Literacy Coalition
- Oklahoma City Metro Literacy Coalition
- High School Equivalency Testing
- Oklahoma Educational Indicators Program
- Learning Disabilities Association of America
- Oklahoma HiSET Exam Requirements
National Links
- GED Testing Service
- International Literacy Association
- National Center for Families Learning
- Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC)
- ProLiteracy
- U.S. Department of Education
ESL/ ELL/ Citizenship
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- USA Learns Citizenship
- Activities for ESL/EFL Students
- Dave's ESL Cafe—Resources for ESL tutors and students
- English As 2nd Language
- Interesting Things for ESL Students
Instructional Resources for Tutors
- Using Pictures to Teach English: They are Worth a Thousand Words!
- ABC Fast Phonics
- Make Beliefs Comix
- ProLiteracy Education Network
- Storybird
Technology Tips
Miscellaneous
- LD Online— The interactive guide for learning disabilities for parents, teachers, and children
To contact staff of the Literacy Resource Office, go to ODL's Office & Staff Listing.