Literacy Facts

For everyone, everywhere, literacy is…a basic human right.

-Kofi Annan, Former UN Secretary-General

“I have gotten a lot of exposure to the disparities and inequalities in access to literacy and education. Many children in South Africa and across the continent continue to struggle to have access to books and libraries in their school environments because of budget limitations and many conflicting priorities. My own story also drives this — I was raised in a rural area where we didn’t have libraries at my primary school. It was only when I moved to an urban school that I discovered books and reading. That made me realize how social and educational access shapes a child’s future. In South Africa, school dropout rates remain high — that motivates me deeply to help ensure no child’s future is compromised because they lack the tools to thrive.”

— Nontuthuzelo Nikiwe, Board Chair, African Library Project

Why Literacy Matters

Literacy saves lives.

UNESCO research shows that children whose mothers can read are nearly 50% more likely to survive past age five. When parents can understand health information, nutrition guidance, and medical instructions, whole families benefit.

Literacy delays early pregnancy and marriage.

Studies across Sub-Saharan Africa show that girls who can read and stay in school are far less likely to marry young or become teenage mothers. Literacy empowers girls to make informed choices and opens the door to healthier futures.

Literacy fuels opportunity.

According to the World Bank, each additional year of schooling can increase a girl’s earnings by 10-20%. For families and communities, this translates into more economic stability, less poverty, and increased stability for the next generation.

Literacy strengthens communities.

When people can read, they gain access to life-saving information, pathways to jobs, and have a confident voice in the conversation that affect their lives. In this way, literacy doesn’t just impact individuals—it builds healthier families, stronger economies, and more connected communities.

Every book placed in a child’s hands is a step toward confidence, opportunity, and a brighter future. With your support, ALP creates libraries that change lives, book by book.