International Literacy Day Sep 8, 2024

International Literacy Day

"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." These words by former secretary-general of the United Nations Kofi Annan capture the essence of International Literacy Day, celebrated every September 8. Established by UNESCO in 1966, this observance not only celebrates those who can read but also highlights the ongoing battle against illiteracy. With approximately 775 million people worldwide still lacking basic literacy, this day resonates powerfully within the hallowed walls of the Stockholm Public Library in Sweden, or "Stadsbiblioteket" as it is known to locals, featured in today"s image.

© Andrei Hrabun/Alamy

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Today in History

Sep 8, 2018It’s oh so quiet
Sep 8, 2019Just a couple of yellow-billed hornbills
Sep 8, 2020Victory Day in Valletta
Sep 8, 2021Enter the magical world of Livraria Lello
Sep 8, 2022Seville, Spain
Sep 8, 2023International Literacy Day
Sep 8, 2025International Literacy Day

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Jan 25, 2024Ruins of St. Dwynwens Church, Ynys Llanddwyn, Wales
Apr 5, 2023Black grouses lekking
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Jul 23, 2020At the foot of Dubrovnik s Gibraltar
Dec 15, 2018A long winter’s nap, perhaps?
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Nov 6, 2025Celebrating Yi Peng
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Apr 3, 2019Dark skies over New Mexico
Mar 25, 2021There was gold in them there hills…
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Apr 16, 2026Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Jul 19, 2020Venice by night
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Apr 23, 2026Shakespeare Day
Sep 18, 2025Dunquin Pier, County Kerry, Ireland
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Feb 9, 2023Lower Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Mar 26, 2026Logan Creek Suspension Bridge, West Coast Trail, Canada
Jan 29, 2018Vacuum Chamber 5 at Glenn Research Center
Jun 10, 2023Porto Cathedral, Portugal
Dec 29, 2023Oud-West, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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