Literacy Delaware has received a grant to partner with the Delaware Division of Libraries (DDL) to collaborate on initiatives to expand capacity for adult literacy programming and services through all public libraries statewide.

“We are excited to expand our partnership with Delaware’s Libraries to include more than just tutoring and meeting spaces. Literacy and libraries go hand in hand, and it is way past time that we deepen our partnership.” says Literacy Delaware Executive Director Cindy Shermeyer.

Part of this deepened partnership focuses on involvement in the newly launched collaborative, the Delaware Communities of Excellence (COE) as well as a new digital literacy programming initiative.

DDL is the driving force of the Delaware COE and Literacy Delaware is in the front seat lending resources and expertise. The Delaware COE collaborative's goal is to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. Its current work is developing comprehensive literacy systems fostering equity for all using a collective impact framework and the Communities of Excellence model as large-scale societal change requires broad, cross-sector coordination.

COVID-19 has unveiled the need for digital literacy skills and access to technology many Delawareans have even in 2021. Investing in the Northstar Digital Literacy program, DDL and Literacy Delaware can leverage resources to offer digital literacy programming at the library.

“We are excited about the partnership with Literacy Delaware to extend their expertise in support of adult literacy services through all of the public libraries” says Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian and Director of the Delaware Division of Libraries.

Together, we will enhance Delawareans' quality of life through literacy and create a strong foundation for a more equitable Delaware.