Celebrating World Book Day

Posted by Santiago de la Mora, European Partnerships Lead, Books

Growing up in Colombia in the '70s, I saw the effects of illiteracy firsthand. Some might take it for granted, but the ability to read is perhaps one of the most empowering acts we can do as individuals and members of society.

This idea is what got me so excited about Google Book Search and, in fact, what brought me to Google. It’s also what makes me so happy about our involvement in The Literacy Project, a joint initiative by Google, LitCam, and UNESCO’s Institute for Lifelong Learning to create an online resource for finding and sharing ideas about literacy and promoting reading.

In honor of World Book Day--the day of Cervantes' and Shakespeare’s deaths in 1616-- The Literacy Project is highlighting initiatives that our partners have carried out on local, national, and international levels. You'll find subtitled videos, interactive comic books, and customizable books, as well as information that can be used by other reading organizations around the world. Associations can plot their contact and project details on a searchable map, share ideas through our forum, and find great educational materials from members worldwide.

Check out what one of our members, CAST, has to say about it here. The technology they've developed to make reading easier is just one of the many cool intiatives being featured by The Literacy Project.