Every September 8th since 1967, International Literacy Day brings global attention to literacy’s vital role in creating fairer, more peaceful, and sustainable communities. This annual observance reminds leaders, educators, and citizens around the world that reading and writing skills are essential for a better society. And literacy represents more than just the ability to read and write—it’s a basic human right that unlocks access to many freedoms and opportunities.
But despite progress globally, 739 million adults (UIS, 2025) still cannot read and write. This makes International Literacy Day’s mission that much more urgent.
In 2026, the International Literacy Day (ILD) theme is “Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity”. Read more about literacy successes and continued work, and find out about ILD events across the world on the UNESCO International Literacy Day website.
Oregon
While the United States has seen a decline in literacy rates since the Covid-19 pandemic, Oregon has experienced the most significant decline. As of a 2024 study, Oregon ranked as the worst state in 4th grade reading text scores. Literacy skills are a vitally important focus not only globally and nationally, but also for the state.