Celebrate International Literacy Day!
Event Description
International Literacy Day (ILD), celebrated annually on September 8, shines a spotlight on global literacy needs. On ILD (and every day), advocate for a literate world, support literacy educators and leaders, and celebrate the power of literacy.
Classroom Activity
On every September 8 since 1967, International Literacy Day has been celebrated around the world “to remind policymakers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society,” according to UNESCO.
The 2026 theme, ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity,’ invites educators and others to discuss progress and challenges facing global literacy in a rapidly changing world. The International Literacy Association estimates that at least 739 million young people and adults around the world lack basic literacy skills, and four in 10 children in low- and middle-income countries are not reaching minimum proficiency in reading.
However, literacy is increasing, with more than 88 percent of adults worldwide knowing how to read and write, UNESCO reports, compared to 65 percent in 1975. Celebrating International Literacy Day is one way that teachers and students can consider and spread awareness about the importance of increasing literacy around the world.
Websites
Learn more about ILD from UNESCO.
Learn about global ILD celebrations happening in 2026.