"Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associated with varying contexts. Literacy involves a continuum of learning in enabling individuals to achieve their goals, to develop their knowledge and potential, and to participate fully in their community and wider society."

The Salem Public Library Foundation Board strives to promote literacy in Salem.
We understand the importance of literacy in today's world and seek to support learners of all ages.

Learning to Read Begins at Birth

Thanks to a grant from Salem Foundation’s Aurelia P. Edwards Memorial Fund, new parents throughout Salem receive a “New Baby Welcome Packet.” These packets are distributed by hospital staff at Salem Hospital Family Birth Center.

Salem Public Library’s “New Baby Welcome Packets” are designed to give newborns in our community a jump-start on development and learning, by promoting reading to newborns and encouraging families to make visiting the library part of their regular activities. Every packet contains a new board book for the baby – in Spanish or English. The bags also have lists of age-appropriate books for children, library storytime information, and an application for baby’s first library card

Digital Literacy for All

Digital literacy is the knowledge, skills, and behaviors used in a broad range of digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop PCs. All of these devices have become a common part of  today's society, and related knowledge and skills are important.

The Foundation's support for digital projects at the Salem Library (including on-site computers and free Wi-Fi connectivity) are aimed to help bridge the digital divide between “haves” and “have nots” in the local area.