By Michael Joel-Hansen

P.A. marks Family Literacy Day

Jan 27, 2019 | 7:00 AM

Sunday marks Family Literacy Day across Canada but readers in Prince Albert, had a one day jump start.  

On Saturday, the local literacy network set up a number of booths at their location in the Gateway Mall.

Kara Thorpe, who serves as family programs coordinator with the Prince Albert Literacy Network explained that events and occasions like the one Saturday provide some opportunities to educate the public on a variety of issues.

“One of the things that the literacy network and literacy in general is trying to explore, is the fact that literacy is not just about reading a book, but it’s also about being able to physically move, being able to budget,” she said.   

With this spirit in mind there were a number of booths set up at the literacy networks location in the mall, which focused on many of those issues. One booth was set up by Service Canada and aimed to educate parents about government financial supports for post-secondary education.

Trades in Sask.

Skilled trades need not limited to building homes

3h ago

Weather issues

Old man winter returns for one more round

4h ago

Unlocking success in real estate with Glenn Zdrill

8h ago

“What we’re looking at is trying to coordinate stations that include physical literacy, financial literacy, we have Regional Kidsfirst here, [we’re] working with Child Find,” said Thorpe.

Thorpe said in the modern day literacy is also about ensuring people have the skills to make healthy decisions and lead a healthier life overall.  

“It’s not just about the book anymore,” she said.

While literacy is evolving a representative from John M. Cuelenaere Public Library was also on hand Saturday afternoon.

Abby Burden the program supervisor with the library explained that coming out to events, like the one Saturday provides the chance to dispel some misconceptions about the local library.

“I think a lot of people think that the library’s not busy and that it’s not being used,” she said.  

Burden said along with getting many people in the building every day, they also offer many other services like electronic books and internet to the general public.    

“We’re keeping up with the times,” she said.

MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn