Langley Literacy Association

The Langley Literacy Association is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to improving literacy skills among children, families, and adults within the Langley community and surrounding areas. Founded in 2001 by community members with a shared commitment to enhancing literacy, the association focuses on fostering learning opportunities that integrate literacy into everyday community life.

History and Mission

The organization began with the vision of addressing literacy needs at a community level. In 2005, the Langley Literacy Association took part in a province-wide initiative called 2010 Literacy Now, which encouraged communities across British Columbia to develop comprehensive literacy plans. Through this initiative, the association hosted a community launch and planning meeting, which led to the creation of the Langley Literacy Now Task Force. This group, representing a diverse cross-section of social services, educational institutions, and community stakeholders—including the Fraser Valley Regional Library, Kwantlen University College, the Aboriginal community, and faith groups—worked extensively to assess literacy resources and gaps in Langley.

The Task Force developed the community literacy plan titled Literacy for the 21st Century: A Plan for Langley, which was endorsed by 2010 Literacy Now in 2008. The plan was publicly presented and supported at the first Langley Literacy Summit, which also resulted in the formation of the Langley Community Literacy Steering Committee. This committee oversees the implementation of the literacy plan, ensuring sustained efforts in literacy development across the community.

Programs and Services

Langley Literacy Association offers a broad range of programs aimed at different age groups and literacy levels:

• Wrap-A-Read Program: This flagship initiative distributes books to children from low-income families, promoting early literacy and a love of reading.
• Family Literacy Programs: Designed to support literacy development within the family context, these programs engage both children and parents.
• School Age Literacy: Activities and support aimed at enhancing literacy skills among school-aged children.
• Adult Basic Education: Literacy and foundational skills support for adults seeking to improve their reading, writing, and communication skills.
• Conversation Circles: Spaces for newcomers and refugees to practice and improve their English conversational skills.
• Community One-on-One Learning (COOL) Program: Personalized literacy support tailored to individual learners’ needs.
• Langley StoryWalk® and Welcoming Library: Innovative public literacy initiatives that integrate storytelling and reading into community spaces.
• Literacy Fairs and Events: Community gatherings to raise awareness and celebrate literacy.

Community Impact

The Langley Literacy Association emphasizes that literacy development is best achieved through community involvement and integration into daily life. By raising awareness among community groups and enhancing their capacity to support literacy learners, the association aims to create a broad and sustainable culture of literacy that benefits individuals, families, and society at large.

Recognition and Partnerships

The association acknowledges that its work is situated on the traditional and unceded territories of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Matsqui, and Semiahmoo First Nations. It collaborates with various partners, including Decoda Literacy Solutions and First Book Canada, to extend its reach and resources.

Organizational Details

• Business Registration Number: 879474807RR0001
• Primary Focus: Literacy education and community literacy development

The Langley Literacy Association remains a vital contributor to literacy advancement in Langley, continually adapting its programs to meet evolving community needs.

This article is compiled based on information from the Langley Literacy Network and related resources.