Feb. 21st is International Mother Language Day

Today is International Mother Language Day and on this day we recognize language diversity and variety worldwide. Our students represent 85 different countries and speak more than 37 different languages! 

International Mother Language Day has been observed since February 2000 and promotes the preservation and protection of all languages used by people around the world. 

"In this age of new technologies, books remain precious instruments, easy to handle, sturdy and practical for sharing knowledge, mutual understanding and opening the world to all. Books are the pillars of knowledge societies and essential for promoting freedom of expression and education for all."

Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Message for International Mother Language Day 2013

To learn more about International Mother Language Day, check UNESCO's website at : 
http://www.un.org/en/events/motherlanguageday/

New Year's Resolutions

Every year on January 1 people all over the world make the decision to change something about their life. Have you ever wondered where the idea of New Year's Resolutions come from?

The tradition of the New Year's Resolutions goes all the way back to 153 B.C.

The ancient Babylonians made promises to their gods at the start of each year that they would return borrowed objects and pay their debts. In the Medieval era, knights took the "peacock vow" at the end of the Christmas season each year to re-affirm their commitment to chivalry.

We have continued the tradition of making resolutions at the start of the new year. According to the University of Scranton,  Journal of Clinical Psychology, approximately 45% of Americans make New Year's Resolutions and the most popular New Year's Resolutions are:

1. To Lose Weight
2. To Get Organized
3. Spend Less, Save More
4. Enjoy Life to the Fullest
5. Staying Fit and Healthy
6. Learn Something Exciting
7. Quit Smoking
8. Help Others in Their Dreams
9. Fall in Love
10. Spend More Time with Family

At the Adult Literacy League many of our students have made similar resolutions to improve their lives. Whether it is the decision to learn to read, to earn a GED, to improve English skills or to help the young people in their lives learn to love literacy, our students and volunteers are making big changes throughout the year!