Seven Literacies: Basic Literacy

ALA's Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services partnered with ProLiteracy to develop a free online course that guides libraries in integrating adult literacy services and policies to help meet the needs of the 36 million U.S adults who lack adequate literacy and basic skills. The interactive course includes 10 modules based on the recommendations outlined in the 2013 Adult Literacy through Libraries: An Action Agenda. The course is free to all, though registration is required.

ALA's "Literacy for All: Adult Literacy @ your library" program offers:

ALA also hosts a literacy clearinghouse that defines literacy and equity of access.

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) has a Literacy and Reading section with a blog and a Facebook page.  They also have Guidelines for Library-Based Literacy Programs with some practical suggestions and considerations.

Partner with the chapter that serves your area.

• ALA offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to support programs aimed at enhancing adult literacy through The American Dream Starts @ your library® initiative.
• Better World Books gives up to $15,000 for "Game Changing ideas which help advance a compelling literacy project."
• The Dollar General Literacy Foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations and schools that help individuals advance their literacy and basic education skills.
• The Wish You Well Foundation gives grants between $200 and $10,000 to support new and expanded programs for family literacy and education.

Goodwill Community Foundation International provides GCFLearnFree.org which provides quality online learning opportunities to anyone who wants to improve the literacy, technology, and math skills needed to be successful in both work and life.