By Wes Bloom
Family Literacy Day is a national initiative that was created in 1999 by the ABC Life Literacy Canada organization. It is held every year on January 27th, to help raise national awareness of the value and importance of reading and other literacy skills in our lives. Its goal is to promote not only reading and literacy, but also family intimacy and closeness by the mutual sharing of stories in various forms.
Family Literacy Day is a huge event all across Canada. Schools, libraries, literacy organizations, and even some media groups join together to help promote literacy-themed activities and events and honour this exceptional, special initiative.
Assiniboia and District Public Library, along with its capable staff and volunteers, were once again pleased to participate in this event on Saturday afternoon. Because of the cold weather, this year’s attendance was down slightly from previous years, but the enthusiasm and excitement for this event were high! Those brave souls who ventured out, were certainly not disappointed, and everyone appeared to have a wonderful time. There were games that promote literacy and ‘learning’, stories, and even snacks to warm the heart of those in attendance.
Lori Crighton, local branch librarian, was keen to point out, that literacy is not JUST about reading. “It’s about digital, mathematical, and financial literacy as well. One cannot, of course, do any of these things without the ability to read and understand. Computers, technology, and the internet are all tools to help with this process, but it begins with the ability to read.“
