When is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day 2027 is on Wednesday
Wednesday, September 8, 2027
September 8 every year. That's in 339 days.
until International Literacy Day begins, in your time zone
International Literacy Day is UNESCO's yearly reminder that reading and writing are a matter of dignity and human rights. It highlights progress toward a more literate world and the large gaps that remain for children and adults.
About International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day treats the ability to read, write and use numbers as a foundation for almost everything else: further learning, decent work, good health information and full participation in community and civic life. The day reminds governments, educators and the public that many people still lack these skills. UNESCO reports that at least 739 million young people and adults worldwide lacked basic literacy skills in 2024.
UNESCO proclaimed International Literacy Day in 1966, at the 14th session of its General Conference, and the day has been celebrated every September 8 since 1967. Each year UNESCO also presents its International Literacy Prizes, which reward outstanding and innovative literacy programs. Over the years, more than 500 projects run by governments, nonprofit organizations and individuals have been recognized.
The 2026 observance marked the day's 60th anniversary under the theme "Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity," with UNESCO's global celebration held in Mexico on September 8 and 9. Beyond the main event, the day is marked at local, national and regional levels by schools, libraries, literacy groups and adult education programs.
Sources: UNESCO: International Literacy Day, UNESCO: What you need to know about literacy. How we check dates.
How to mark International Literacy Day
- Volunteer as a reading tutor for children or adult learners through a library, school or literacy nonprofit.
- Donate books in good condition to a school, shelter or community library, or start a neighborhood book exchange.
- Read aloud with a child for 20 minutes and let them choose the book.
- Find out what adult literacy classes are offered in your area and share the information with people who might benefit.
- Look at UNESCO's latest literacy data to see where the gaps are largest and how they are changing.
International Literacy Day dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Monday, September 8, 2025 |
| 2026 | Tuesday, September 8, 2026 |
| 2027 | Wednesday, September 8, 2027 |
| 2028 | Friday, September 8, 2028 |
| 2029 | Saturday, September 8, 2029 |
| 2030 | Sunday, September 8, 2030 |
| 2031 | Monday, September 8, 2031 |
Related days
Explore
Frequently asked questions
When is International Literacy Day 2027?
International Literacy Day 2027 is on Wednesday, September 8, 2027. It falls on September 8 every year. In 2028, it is on Friday, September 8, 2028.
Who started International Literacy Day?
UNESCO proclaimed it in 1966 at the 14th session of its General Conference, and it has been celebrated on September 8 every year since 1967.
What are the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes?
They are awards UNESCO presents each year to outstanding and innovative literacy programs run by governments, organizations or individuals. The award ceremony is part of the International Literacy Day celebrations.
Is International Literacy Day a public holiday?
No. International Literacy Day is an observance, not a public holiday, so schools, banks, government offices and most businesses keep their normal hours.