Collection Development "Literacy": Literacy, Redefined

What does it mean to be literate in the 21st century? Fifty years ago a high school graduate with some basic reading and writing ability could get a well-paying blue-collar job. Today a person at the same level might have trouble finding good work and may be considered illiterate in some circles. The past half-century has brought us not only astonishing technological transformations but expanded definitions of the term literacy.

While there is general agreement in 2004 that adult literacy is more than just a measure of basic reading skills, there is still no consensus on an exact definition. The American Library Association Committee on Literacy has drafted a document that offers 13 different definitions (available at http://www.ala.org/ala/olos/aboutolos/commonliteracy/alacommitteeliteracydefining.htm). Minimalists define literacy as the basic set of skills required to function on a job—skills that include math and writing as well as reading. Others, arguing that the ability to use a computer is crucial to workplace productivity, have expanded the definition to incorporate technological literacy.

Historically one of the strongest promoters of literacy, libraries are caught in the middle as they struggle to cope with these shifting definitions. Many still have traditional collections: worn-out phonics texts and high-low readers that no longer circulate well. Meanwhile, materials that help foreign-language speakers learn English are flying off the shelves. Also in high demand are math, grammar, computer, and general equivalency diploma (GED) books. Librarians need to rethink their concepts of literacy as they build or upgrade their collections.

To help with the process, this article will focus on general and professional materials that address the new literacy. Specific reading texts for new adult readers and curriculum materials are omitted for two reasons: first, public libraries will offer better service by coordinating collection development in these areas with local literacy councils and agencies; second, the federal government has tied the funding of many reading programs to the use of curricula that are developed on "evidence-based" criteria for adult literacy. Publishers have not had time to apply these new criteria into their textbooks.

While individual tutoring and traditional classroom adult education continue, new types of adult literacy programs have emerged. English as a Second Language (ESL) programs help those who don't speak English not only learn English but also acquire basic subject skills in English. [For an overview of core curriculum texts, see Bruce Jensen's "Accent on English: Tools for Learning," LJ 8/02, p. 53–56.]

Family literacy programs were developed on the theory that literacy is a family, rather than individual, skill. Core elements include literacy training for children (Child Time) and training parents to help their children (Parent Time).

Patrons must be trained how best to use new tools like online databases and the Internet. Thus traditional bibliographic instruction (BI) has been reborn as information literacy. Likewise, interest in workplace literacy has grown as companies require a more tech-savvy work force.

Books, aimed mainly at literacy practitioners and CE professionals, are not frequently reviewed so it is wise to depend on the advice of local educators. Among the few houses that publish solid titles in this field, Neal-Schuman Publishers and the International Reading Association (see below) offer a broad selection. Professional literacy organizations are also useful for collection development advice.

While certain out-of-print classics like Jonathan Kozol's Prisoners of Silence and Illiterate America still have a place in a literacy collection, discard any other title published before 1990. The new federal legislation and funding for "evidence-based" programs will date older materials on funding and curriculum. Starred (*) items are core purchases for all libraries.

*Literacy in America: An Encyclopedia of History, Theory & Practice. 2 vols. ABC-CLIO. 2002. 800p. ed. by Barbara J. Guzzetti. illus. bibliog. index. ISBN 1-57607-358-0. $185.
Featuring more than 300 in-depth A–Z articles, this excellent resource covers both current practice and historic trends in all areas of literacy. Accessible to both specialists and nonacademics. (LJ 12/02)

Blake, Brett Elizabeth & Robert W. Blake. Literacy and Learning: A Reference Handbook. ABC-CLIO. (Contemporary Education Issues). 2002. 267p. ISBN 1-57607-273-8. $45.
Despite the primary education focus, much of the information is applicable to adult literacy. Sections such as "Meaning of Literacy" and "Literacy Among Diverse Learners" are particularly helpful. Includes a useful list of organizations and print and nonprint sources.

*Brandt, Deborah. Literacy in American Lives. Cambridge Univ. 2001. 258p. ISBN 0-521-78315-1 $70; pap. ISBN 0-521-00306-7. $24.99.
Interviewing more than 80 Americans born between 1895 and 1985, Brandt (Literacy as Involvement) reports on how shifting literacy standards have affected their lives. Particularly powerful are her chapters on the impact of economic change and literacy on African Americans.

*Gordon, Edward E. & Elaine H. Gordon. Literacy in America: Historic Journey and Contemporary Solutions. Praeger. 2003. 325p. ISBN 0-275-97864-8. pap. $24.95.
The only comprehensive history of American literacy from 1620 to the present includes excellent chapters on African American and Native American education. Unfortunately, one omission: women and literacy.

Johnson, Sarah Coprich. The Role of the Black Church in Family Literacy. Peter Lang. 1999. 109p. ISBN 0-8204-3712-3. $40.95.
Literacy education expert Johnson examines the literacy efforts of four black churches and includes practical ideas for implementing similar programs. This is one of the few resources focused on adult literacy in the black community.

Kirsch, Irwin S. & others. Adult Literacy in America: A First Look at the Findings of the National Adult Literacy Survey. National Ctr. for Education Statistics, nces.ed.gov. 1993. 176p. NCES# 93275. Free.
The state of the nation in terms of literacy. Based on a 1992 federal survey, this report, available as a downloadable PDF file, offers an in-depth analysis of the various literacy levels of the U.S. population. Be careful in interpreting this document; misunderstandings have led to controversy and inaccurate media reports.

*Kruidenier, John. Research-Based Principles for Adult Basic Education Reading Instruction: Partnership for Reading. National Inst. for Literacy, purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS44057. 2002. 128p.
Probably the most important book on adult literacy of the decade, as it established the basic criteria for the federal funding of all adult/family literacy programs. Available as a print pamphlet (edpuborder@edpubs. org) or PDF download.

*Lanehart, Sonja L. Sista, Speak! Black Women Kinfolk Talk About Language and Literacy. Univ. of Texas. 2002. 264p. ISBN 0-292-74729-2. pap. $22.95.
In a study both moving and scholarly, linguistics professor Lanehart discusses the impact of "proper" English on non-middle-class and nonwhite people, as reflected in the experiences of her grandmother, mother, aunt, and sister.

*Viens, Julie & Silja Kallenbach. Multiple Intelligences and Adult Literacy: A Sourcebook for Practitioners. Teachers Coll. 2004. 208p. ISBN 0-8077-4346-1. pap. $27.95.
A practical sourcebook explaining and applying Harvard psychologist Howard Gardener's multiple intelligence theory in adult literacy classes.

Latino/a Discourses: On Language, Identity & Literacy Education. Boynton/Cook Pub. (Crosscurrents). 2004. 147p. ed. By Michelle Hall Kells & others. ISBN 0-86709-544-X. pap. $19.
Eight moving essays dissect traditional ideas of literacy while examining how multiple literacies can be used to empower Latino/Latina students and adults with composition and reading skills.

Reid, Suzanne. Book Bridges for ESL Students: Using Young Adult and Children's Literature to Teach ESL. Scarecrow. 2002. 144p. ISBN 0-8108-4213-0. $32.50.
Practical tips from a seasoned teacher on working with ESL students. While the focus is on YA, much of the advice would be helpful to adults.

Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language. 3d ed. Heinle & Heinle. 2001. 584p. ed. by Marianne Celce-Murcia. index. ISBN 0-8384-1992-5. pap. $52.95.
This anthology of 36 essays by acknowledged specialists offers theoretical and practical advice. Ideal for libraries that serve ESL and literacy tutors.

Family Literacy from Theory to Practice. Intl. Reading Assn. 2003. 326p. ed. by Andrea DeBruin-Parecki & Barbara Krol-Sinclair. ISBN 0-87207-511-7. $28.95.
This hefty handbook covers theory, parent and school collaboration, program models, and evaluation. For limited budgets, an alternative to the more authoritative but pricier Handbook of Family Literacy (below).

*Handbook of Family Literacy. Lawrence Erlbaum Assocs. 2004. 684p. ed. by Barbara Hanna Wasik. ISBN 0-8058-4307-8. $250; pap. ISBN 0-8058-5240-9. $89.95.
Thirty-two essays by noted experts offer an up-to-date overview. The diverse elements comprising family literacy programs are well covered as are cultural considerations and evaluation issues. This hefty, comprehensive volume is a must for professionals, students, policymakers, and public and academic libraries supporting literacy programs.

*Quezada, Shelley & Ruth S. Nickse. Community Collaborations for Family Literacy Handbook. Neal-Schuman. 1993. 181p. ISBN 1-55570-164-7. pap. $49.95.
Collaboration among agencies and other community organizations is an often overlooked component of family literacy programs; the excellent coverage here distinguishes this guide from the rest of the pack. (LJ 3/1/94)

*Talan, Carole. Founding and Funding Family Literacy Programs: A How-To-Do-It Manual for Librarians. Neal-Schuman. 1999. 225p. ISBN 1-55570-210-4. pap. $55.
The ultimate how-to book for community-based family literacy programs within the library. Everything from determining community need and selecting the best program model to fundraising and assessment. (LJ 9/1/99)

*Willoughby-Herb, Sara & Steven Herb. Connecting Fathers, Children, and Reading: A How-To-Do-It Manual for Librarians. Neal-Schuman. 2002. 197p. bibliog. index. ISBN 1-55570-390-9. pap. $49.95.
Recognizing the effect fathers can have on their children's literacy development, this excellent manual offers many useful ideas for library reading programs. The text also explains how these programs can benefit fathers. The outstanding bibliographies of books and web resources are a plus.

Eisenberg, Michael B. & others. Information Literacy: Essential Skills for the Information Age. 2d ed. Libraries Unlimited. 2004. 224p. bibliog. index. ISBN 1-59158-143-5. pap. $47.50.
A renowned expert on information literacy addresses history, economic importance, past and current research, theoretical underpinnings, and practical aspects. Global in scope.

Withrow, Frank B. Literacy in the Digital Age: Reading, Writing, Viewing, and Computing. Scarecrow. 2003. 120p. ISBN 1-57886-033-4. pap. $21.95.
This engaging book by a former learning technologist with the Education Department forecasts his vision of the digital society in 2010.

Goad, Tom W. Information Literacy and Workplace Performance. Quorum: Greenwood. 2002. 248p. index. ISBN 1-56720-454-6. $77.95.
Noting that information literacy is the new "one skill" that workers need to develop, the author defines and examine its various elements within the context of the workplace.

*Parent Time: A Key to Understanding. color. 20 min. with booklet. National Ctr. for Family Literacy, 502-584-0172, www.famlit.org. 2003. $75.
Although this brief video is designed to be used by facilitators in family literacy programs, any parent who wants to be more involved in children's literacy training may find it helpful. The Spanish-language version does not include the booklet and PowerPoint presentation.

Goodling Institute for Research in Family Literacy
www.ed.ppsu.edu/goodlinginstitute
Part of Penn State University's College of Education, the institute aims to improve family literacy through research and educational (certificate and master's degree) programs.

International Reading Association
www.reading.org
IRA's web site offers information on its various programs and publications, including The Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy.

Literacy Lists
www.alri.org/literacylist.html
Updated periodically, this is a large collection of free electronic lists, web sites, and other online resources, organized by category (web sites for teachers and students, distance learning, lesson plans, etc.).

National Assessments of Adult Literacy
www.nces.ed.gov/naal
The official site for analysis and interpretation of the national surveys on literacy.

National Center for Family Literacy
www.famlit.org
The professional association for family literacy practitioners offers information on professional and program development.

National Center for the Study of Adult Learning & Literacy
gseweb.harvard.edu/~ncsall
This site offers several research sources on adult basic education and adult literacy. Many of NCSALL's publications are available for download as PDF files.