NEWS

For Immediate release:
June 30, 2004
Contact:
Larra Clark
Press Officer
312-280-5043

Verizon helps ALA assess literacy readiness nationwide

(ORLANDO) The American Library Association (ALA) is proud to announce its Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS) has received a $295,000 grant from the Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Verizon Communications, to create Build Literacy @ your library, part of the BuildLiteracy.org Web site.

Build Literacy @ your library will develop strategies, tools and funding opportunities to dramatically increase the number of public libraries providing adult literacy programs and services nationwide.  The initial phase of the nationwide project will assess libraries’ capabilities of providing literacy training and assistance. A literacy readiness inventory helps libraries identify, articulate, and reflect upon how they approach literacy service delivery. The ultimate goal of the project is to help libraries to develop, build and expand community literacy services and outreach programs.

“This new gift from Verizon will allow the ALA to translate a strong national literacy initiative into neighborhoods coast to coast,” said ALA Immediate Past President Carla Hayden.  “Verizon has been a strong and consistent partner in developing the tools and support necessary to improve literacy across the country.”

The Web site, www.BuildLiteracy.org, helps libraries and communities build stronger literacy partnerships. It uses innovative Web technology to facilitate the sharing of strategies, practices, and resources, develop models for real and virtual library literacy partnerships, and facilitate online technical assistance. BuildLiteracy.org equips libraries, literacy programs and community partnerships with the resources and tools they need to provide more effective literacy programs and services for adult learners.Verizon has funded this initiative since 2000. “This initiative will assess literacy services provided through libraries and help provide additional tools for them to expand their capacity to serve those needing assistance,” said Kathryn C. Brown, senior vice president for public policy development and corporate social responsibility at Verizon. “Verizon is proud to partner with ALA and their members to leverage a community’s considerable asset – the public library – in the fight for a more literate America.”

Support of initiatives like this is part of Verizon's overall commitment to leading the effort to increase literacy levels in the United States. Through its signature Verizon Reads program and the Verizon Literacy Network, the company works to increase community and corporate awareness, raise funds, encourage collaboration among literacy providers, and engage employees in supporting literacy programs. For more information on literacy resources in your area visit Verizon Reads at www.verizonreads.net.

The Verizon Foundation last year awarded 22,000 grants totaling about $70 million to charitable and nonprofit agencies that focus on improving basic and computer literacy, enriching communities through technology, and creating a skilled work force.For more information on the foundation, visit www.verizon.com/foundation.