Literacy

Building on the logical links between literacy, historical literacy, and civic engagement, the National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance created the Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out book and website to encourage young people to read more about America’s rich history and culture; to think more about America’s future; to talk more about our nation’s leadership; and to act on their own beliefs and convictions, ensuring this great democratic experiment will survive and thrive.

We believe that literacy is essential to the development of responsible citizens in a democracy. And we believe that citizens, both young and old, must have equal access to stimulating books and information sources that invite them to dream and give them the tools to achieve their dreams. As writers and illustrators, teachers and mentors, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles—as citizens and neighbors—our ultimate question is always how can we best serve all of our nation’s children? 

Historical Literacy Statistics
The more education people have, the more likely they are to vote in presidential and congressional elections. Check out the statistics that provide a window into the state of American students’ knowledge of U.S. history and civics.

NCBLA Literacy Links
Direct access to literacy articles and pages on the NCBLA website.