National Literacy Month

September is National Literacy Month, a time to recognize the power of literacy in transforming lives and strengthening communities. At the Literacy Council of Frederick County, we believe literacy is more than the ability to read and write—it is the foundation for opportunity, confidence, and connection. Literacy opens doors to education, employment, civic engagement, and greater self-sufficiency, creating ripples that extend to families and future generations.

For more than 60 years, our mission has been to provide Frederick County adults with pathways to literacy and language skills that allow them to thrive. National Literacy Month is a reminder of why this work matters. Join us in celebrating many forms of literacy all September long! Here are some highlights:

  • September 5: Read-a-Book Day
  • September 12: In the Streets Frederick community outreach in Downtown Frederick
  • September 13-19: Adult Education & Family Literacy Week

Keep scrolling for more activities and event details.

Read-a-Book Day Book Swap

Join us for a Read-a-Book Day Book Swap on Saturday, September 5th, at 10:30am. We will be in the Children’s Programming Room at the C. Burr Artz public Library in downtown Frederick. Bring a book to swap, donate, or come and get a new-to-you book.

National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (AEFL Week)

Join us for National Adult Education and Family Literacy (AEFL) Week Workshops, a series of engaging sessions designed to help adult learners build skills for everyday life, work, and community involvement. Throughout the week, participants can explore topics including digital literacy, financial literacy, civic engagement, workplace readiness, and English language learning through free workshops led by local experts and community partners.

Monday, September 14

DIGITAL LITERACY

Cyber Safety for Seniors

Date: Monday, September 14
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: LCFC Classroom
Presenter: Chris May, Advantage Tech
Description: Learn practical strategies to stay safe online, recognize common scams, and protect personal information while using digital devices.

 

Monday, September 14

DIGITAL LITERACY

Digital Literacy, Online Safety, & Navigating AI for Everyday Life

Date: Monday, September 14
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Zoom
Presenter: Kishore Bitra
Description: A friendly, practical introduction to digital literacy and today’s online world. Topics include recognizing scams and phishing attempts, improving online security through multi-factor authentication, and understanding how AI tools affect everyday communication and technology. Register here.

Tuesday, September 15

FINANCIAL LITERACY

Credit Cafe

Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Presenter: Lacey Allen
Description: Learn about financial wellness, housing resources, and strategies for achieving greater financial stability. Register here.

Tuesday, September 15

FINANCIAL LITERACY

Foundations of Investing

Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Centro
Presenter: Brianna Ryland, Edward Jones
Description: Gain practical financial planning tips, budgeting strategies, and information to help you build a stronger financial future.

Wednesday, September 16

CIVIC LITERACY DAY

Frederick Transit: Learn to ride Transit!

Date: Wednesday, September 16

Time: 9:30 AM – 11:10 AM
Location: LCFC Classroom and Transit Field Trip
Presenter: Frederick Transit
Description: Learn how to ride Transit with confidence after this free presentation and Ride-along. Also, participate in an Adopt-a-Stop photo opportunity during the field trip portion. Register here or call our office at 301-600-2066.

Wednesday, September 16

CIVIC LITERACY DAY

Civics Jeopardy

Date: Wednesday, September 16

Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Community Room, C. Burr Artz Library
Presenter: League of Women Voters
Description: Join the League of Women Voters and the Literacy Council to learn, have fun, and compete for prizes during this free civics literacy workshop for adult community members.

Thursday, September 17

WORKPLACE LITERACY

Interview Dos & Don’ts with Ginger Trautman

Date: Thursday, September 17
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: LCFC Classroom
Presenter: Ginger Trautman, Plamondon Hospitality Partners
Description: Ginger has interviewed hundreds of potential employees. She will share her tips on what you should or shouldn’t do when interviewing.

Thursday, September 17

WORKPLACE LITERACY

Job Search Workshop

Date: Thursday, September 17
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Presenter: Mary Snyder
Description: Discover effective job search techniques, online resources, and best practices for navigating today’s employment market. Register here.

Friday, September 18

ENGLISH LITERACY

Master the GED Extended Response

Date: Friday, September 18
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Presenter: Denise Hill (LCFC)
Description: Learn the strategies for how to write and pass the GED extended response in this online workshop. Register here.

Friday, September 16

ENGLISH LITERACY

Open ESL Conversation Experience

Date: Friday, September 18
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: LCFC Classroom
Presenter: LCFC ESL Program
Description: Experience an ESL class firsthand, meet instructors and learners, and learn more about English language learning opportunities available in the community.