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Fifty-one years ago, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially declared September 8 to be International Literacy Day. On this day, all around the world, many organizations actively promote literacy for everyone. The theme this year is Literacy and Skills Development. These are the skills that you need to succeed at work. The Government of Canada has identified nine important workplace skills: 

Reading
 
Reading or reading comprehension is being able to understand information written in sentences and paragraphs. 

Document Use

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Document Use is the ability to understand information in different formats such as charts, lists, drawings, labels, tables and graphs. These documents communicate information quickly or "at a glance."

Numeracy 

Numeracy is the ability to use numbers in terms of quantity to complete tasks. We use this skill when estimating, budgeting, or for basic money math, like calculating change.

Writing 

Writing  is the ability to communicate ideas by writing text, filling out forms or typing on a computer. 

Oral Communication

Oral Communication is the use of speech to give and exchange thoughts and information. You can practice your English in conversation circles and other ESL programs.

Thinking

Thinking or critical thinking is evaluating ideas or information to reach a rational decision.

Digital Technology

Digital Technology is using computer applications or technical tools such as word processing, e-mails, or spreadsheets. 

Working with Others

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Working with Others is being able to get along with co-workers in order to carry out tasks. This also includes being able to work out conflicts. While it may seem like a hard thing to do, you really don't need a referee or boxing gloves to work through disagreements in the workplace. Sometimes being a good listener can go a long way. Become familiar with some conflict resolution strategies before going to your next job interview or have a look at the online course Conflict Resolution Foundations through Lynda.com and add it to your resume. You will need your library card to login.

Continuous Learning

Continuous Learning is ongoing learning as a part of work. This can be through on the job training, library courses, online programs or from co-workers. We also have basic adult literacy programs at ten library branches across the city. 

In celebration of International Literacy Day 2018, Adult Literacy Services put together a collection of stories written by learners in the literacy program. The booklet is filled with stories of strength, renewal and hope. You can borrow a copy of Our Stories, Our Voices: A Collection of Writing by Adult Literacy or download the PDF. 

Happy International Literacy Day!