Minister of Education Chester Gillan has declared January 27 as Family Literacy Day in Prince Edward Island. Family Literacy Day is being celebrated across the country to recognize the value of family literacy activities at home and in the community.
"I encourage all Island families to read together — just 15 minutes a day will help ensure our children develop a love and skill for reading," said Minister Gillan. "Literacy begins in the home and provides the foundation for learning and living in our increasingly demanding world."
As part of the Family Literacy Day celebration, the Provincial Library Service has announced the addition of a collection of literacy materials to its holdings. Minister Gillan noted that libraries play an important role in promoting literacy and life-long learning. Since the Provincial Library is used by family members of all ages it can initiate, support and encourage literacy in all of its forms, from basic reading skills to life skills development.
Minister Gillan added that the support of family members in helping adults to upgrade literacy skills and in creating a learning environment for children is a key factor in increasing the literacy levels of Islanders.
Over the next few weeks, the library will be adding over 400 titles specifically dealing with literacy. The materials include books, audio tapes and videos for all ages. All materials have been added to AbbyCat, the provincial library catalogue and can be borrowed at libraries across the province.
Declaring January 27, Family Literacy Day will result in a greater awareness of the important role Island families play in fostering the love of reading in our children that will provide them with the most valuable resource for life long learning.