Students of the Charford Tiny Tots listen attentively as Lisa Lingo, Librarian II (Ag.), Port of Spain Children’s Library, read to them. The occasion of World Read Aloud Day celebrated on March 07.The National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) in association with Random Acts of Good Deeds celebrated the third annual World Read Aloud Day (WRAD) at the Port of Spain Children’s Library, National Library on Wednesday March 07. Preschoolers from Charford Tiny Tots enjoyed “Read-Aloud” sessions conducted by Omar Lewis (author of The Wonderful World of Myat), Danielle Delon (author and editor of Letter of Margaret Mann) and staff of the Port of Spain Children’s Library.

WRAD is intended to bring attention to the number of persons worldwide who are illiterate and to advocate for the right of all people to become literate. It also serves to motivate children, teens and adults worldwide to celebrate the power of words and to reiterate that the right to read belongs to everyone. WRAD was founded in March 2010 by LitWorld, a non profit organisation based in the United States of America.

Research shows that 793 million persons worldwide remain illiterate, and that children learn to read and write best by writing and telling the stories of their own experiences. NALIS’ Public Libraries provide safe spaces where children can feel comfortable to read and enjoy other library activities. Libraries also offer classes where adults and young adults can learn to read. Contact your local library for more information about adult and youth literacy classes