September is National Literacy Month. Philly, let’s celebrate reading.
Philly knows how to show up for our teams, our neighborhoods, and our families. This September, we’ve got one more reason to come together: National Literacy Month!
Here’s the thing: reading isn’t just about books. It’s about power. Access to opportunity. And the life our children deserve.
Too many of our kids are falling behind in reading. But we’ve got everything it takes to change that: grit, creativity, and a whole lot of love.
Ways to Support Early Literacy This Month
Watch a documentary about the literacy crisis.
The Right to Read breaks down why literacy is a civil rights issue and will light a fire under anyone who watches it. Reading is Love follows two Philly superstars, Akeiff Staples and Brent Johnstone of FathersRead365, showing what real community action looks like. Stream these or other literacy documentaries with your family, friends, or coworkers and talk about what’s next.
Volunteer to support young readers.
You can help Philly kids thrive as readers in big and small ways. Become a Reading Captain and spread the word about the power of reading right on your block—we’ll give you the tools and training you need. Join Philly Reading Coaches to read one-on-one with kids and spark a lifelong love of books. Or volunteer at the Free Library to support storytimes, events, and programs.
Visit your local library.
When’s the last time you stopped by your neighborhood branch? Philly’s librarians and library workers are pure magic. And it’s not just books. You can check out video games, birding equipment, and even a cello. Go see what your library’s got waiting for you.
Explore the Philly ABCs.
The Philly ABCs aren’t your average alphabet. They celebrate the people, places, and things we love about our city. And they’re backed by science on how kids learn to read. Visit PhillyABCs.org for tips on how to make teaching your child the alphabet fun. And remember to practice letter names, letter shapes, and letter sounds!
Advocate for change.
Want to help fix the system? Learn more about the literacy crisis and the policies that can move the needle. Check out our advocacy toolkit and download our new posters to spread the word and spark some change.
