Celebrating International Literacy Day: A Journey Through History and the Power of Book Clubs
Every year on September 8th, the world comes together to observe International Literacy Day, a day dedicated to highlighting the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights. But how did this significant day come about, and what role do community initiatives like New Dawn Distilling’s Bourbon and Books book club play in fostering literacy?
The Genesis of International Literacy Day
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) recognized the fundamental role of literacy in individual empowerment and societal development and officially proclaimed September 8th as International Literacy Day in 1966. The overarching aim is to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, is afforded the fundamental opportunity to learn, grow, and ultimately thrive through the power of literacy.
The day serves as a crucial annual reminder of the importance of literacy as a human right and a foundation for all learning. It highlights the progress made in literacy rates globally while also drawing attention to the challenges that remain, such as disparities in access to education, particularly for marginalized communities, women, and children in conflict zones. Through various events and partnerships, International Literacy Day encourages governments, non-governmental organizations, communities, and individuals to recommit to promoting literacy and fostering a love of reading.
Over the decades, the themes for International Literacy Day have evolved to address contemporary challenges and opportunities in literacy education. From promoting literacy for sustainable development to bridging the digital literacy divide. This year, International Literacy Day will be celebrated under the theme of “Promoting literacy in the digital era.” While digital tools can aid marginalized groups, including 739 million young people and adults lacking basic literacy, this digital shift risks double marginalization: exclusion from traditional literacy and the digital age's benefits.
Celebrating A Year of Bourbon and Books
The Vital Role of Book Clubs in Fostering Literacy
While global initiatives are crucial, the everyday work of fostering literacy often happens at the community level. This is where book clubs shine as invaluable tools for supporting and enhancing reading and comprehension skills. Book clubs, in their essence, are gatherings of individuals who share a common interest in reading and discussing books. Beyond their social aspect, they offer a multitude of benefits for literacy development including encouraging consistent reading, deepening comprehension, developing critical thinking skills, improving communication skills, and building empathy and cultural awareness.
New Dawn Distilling wholeheartedly supports this global commitment to literacy, recognizing its fundamental role in human progress. Bourbon and Books, aims to provide a supportive and engaging environment for reading and of course enjoying whiskey within our community and beyond. A year into our club, we’re looking for opportunities to foster more discussion, critical thinking, and empowerment of our community to contribute significantly to a more literate and informed society.
We have a few ideas up our sleeves as to how to better engage around books and whiskey but welcome your input! Whether you find us through our whiskey or our book selections we want Bourbon and Books to be something that resonates with those both seeking and championing literacy.
