
Literacy​
Literacy​
Defining Literacy​​
Defining Literacy​​
Types of Literacy
Types of Literacy
Literacy is the gateway to successful learning. Children must first learn to read before they can read to learn. Without this solid foundation, they are unable to take full advantage of educational opportunities and are also more likely to become disengaged from the educational process. Literacy also unlocks opportunities and is critical to breaking the pervasive cycle of educational inequality. Therefore improving literacy will go a long way to ensuring that all students, especially the most disadvantaged, have the opportunity to reach their full potential. In addition:
- Nearly 1 out of 2 youth in Liberia cannot read
- Literacy is a pathway out of poverty
- Literacy promotes lifelong learning
- Literacy empowers youth and promote self-sufficiency
- Illiteracy reinforces the cycle of poverty
- Low literacy rates undermine gains in national development
- Literacy sets the foundation for future education and career success
- Literacy leads to better health outcomes
- Literacy is the great equalizer
Types of Literacy
Types of Literacy
Traditional/Basic Literacy - Reading, writing and arithmetic
Information literacy - The ability to know when there is a need for information and to be able to identify, find, evaluate, and use information effectively (also referred to as digital literacy or media literacy).
Computer Literacy - The ability to use a computer and its software to accomplish practical tasks.

Literacy Initiatives
Literacy Initiatives
To support our goal of increasing the youth literacy rate and building a culture of reading we implement a number of literacy initiatives based on the needs of schools and communities including:
- Building a modern, state-of-the art public library and learning center in Monrovia (see Projects Page) that provides access to reading materials and resources, and literacy programs for patrons of all ages (see project page)
- Establishing mobile libraries in under-resourced/rural areas
- Establishing community/school libraries and computer labs
- Providing tutoring and literacy programs
- Providing educational resources, supplies and training (e.g. computers, tablets, books) to under-resourced schools
- Establishing early childhood literacy initiatives
Enrich the Mind, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization whose goal is to increase the youth literacy rate in Liberia, and ensure that the youth of Liberia are better prepared to succeed academically, enter the workforce, and become productive citizens.