Washington, Sept. 7 -- The 2001 International Reading Association Literacy Award winner was announced at an International Literacy Network event held at the Smithsonian Institution today. The winner, Workbase, the National Center for Workplace Literacy and Language, New Zealand, will receive the award at an event September 10, 2001, in Paris. The award, which includes a US$15,000 prize, is presented every year by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in celebration of International Literacy Day. The International Reading Association has supported the award since 1979.

   "Supporting this award reflects our international mission of improving world literacy," according to Donna Ogle, the Association's president. "We join in congratulating the recipient this year," Ogle continues. "Our recognition of Workbase, the National Center for Workplace Literacy and Language of New Zealand brings international attention to the importance of global adolescent and adult literacy efforts."

    Workbase is commended for promoting the need for, and benefits of, better work force literacy, and for providing information and advisory services on best practice work force delivery, including policy input, to government. It is also recognized for coordinating the development of a vocational adult literacy sector through the provision of professional development opportunities, quality programs and distribution of internationally recognized teaching and learning materials.

    In addition, the program is being honored for initiating research and development projects designed to increase understanding about literacy skill development.

    Workbase has established approximately 40 workplace literacy programs. These programs take place during work time at no cost to participants. Workbase places an experienced tutor in the workplace to develop an enterprise-based learning center. Employees are released from work individually or in small groups to follow a tailored learning program. Programs usually run for one year, but in some cases they run for two or three years.

    Workbase is also committed to sharing experience and results from its programs. The program holds a large collection of books, teaching resources, and research on adult literacy in New Zealand, including a free library service to adult literacy practitioners in New Zealand.

    The International Reading Association Literacy Award recognizes meritorious contributions to the struggle against illiteracy. Through their projects, recipients of the award have aided millions of people around the world in improving their literacy skills.

    For more information on International Literacy Day and the International Literacy Day Award, visit the Association's Web site, www.reading.org

    The International Reading Association is a community of reading professionals with a shared goal: promoting higher levels of literacy, reading, and communication skills by continually advancing the quality of instruction.