Meetings of public libraries

In 2014, in Quebec, 1 million people still had major difficulties in reading and writing, or one in five adults. Near 54 % of Quebec adults had low and very low skills. This is what PIAAC reveals to us¹, a study sponsored by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and carried out in 24 countries among adults aged 16 to 65. Across the country, Quebec ranks 10^e rank of Canadian provinces and territories.

Literacy is central to the social role of public libraries and their mission. Our UNESCO manifesto on the public library, a pillar document of our community, also inscribes it within its key missions.

By attending the Rendez-vous des Libraries Publics du Québec, you will discover through concrete examples drawn from existing programs elsewhere in Canada and internationally, how public libraries can contribute, at different levels, to a literacy or basic training process. You will also be able to demystify the definitions and concepts surrounding the different types of literacy and thus better understand the impacts of a low literacy rate on our communities.

Like other public libraries around the world, Quebec libraries are ideally suited to be among the leaders in literacy and literacy.

The early bird registration period has been extended. You now have until May 15 to register and benefit from an advantageous rate on your registration. Reserve your place online

¹ Skills in Canada: First Results of the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC), Ottawa, October 2013.