TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction to Literacy Awareness

• Literacy awareness

• Literacy is more than just reading and writing

• Reasons an adult may have problems with literacy

• Taking steps to develop literacy skills

• The importance of Literacy and Basic Skills programs

• A learner-centred approach

• Types of adult literacy programs

• Finding the right program

• What can you do?

An Accessible Environment

• Your environment

• Print-based materials

• Staff and volunteer awareness

Recognizing Literacy Needs

• Indicators

• Taking it a step further

• Taking action

Clear Writing, Layout and Design

• What is clear language writing?

• Design and layout

• How to write clearly

Using the Public Library

• Services

• What can you do?

OCCL gratefully acknowledges the National Literacy Secretariat, Human Resources Development Canada and the Workplace Preparation Branch, Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities who provided funding for this project. October 2002