Detroit Public Library

Resolution to Establish a Detroit Literacy Council

Whereas, many Detroiters face literacy challenges that limit their ability to lead economically and socially secure lives; and,

Whereas, the City of Detroit is strengthened when every resident is able to successfully complete an employment application; to read and understand directions for personal medications; to assist a child with a homework assignment; or to fully participate in the electoral process, and,

Whereas, Detroit Public Library’s strategic literacy goals state that the library will aggressively pursue literacy partnerships that align with the library’s vision, mission and strategic directions; and,

Whereas, the Library seeks to position and market itself as the community’s resource and primary partner for addressing literacy needs; and,

Whereas, the Library has a long tradition of responding to community needs as a center for literacy, and lifelong learning; and,

Whereas, the Library seeks to initiate an ongoing conversation with community leaders and organizations for the purpose of identifying and providing greater opportunities for increased literacy enhancement, now,

Be it therefore, resolved:

• That the Detroit Library Commission establish the “Detroit Literacy Council” as an advisory board, which will consist of 21 members, representing literacy organizations, community and business leaders, who will meet quarterly or as needed, for the purpose of advising the Detroit Public Library on literacy issues and on programs and services that support and provide literacy development opportunities for Detroit residents.
• That the Detroit Library Commission shall appoint annually the Chairperson for the Detroit Literacy Council.
• That the members of the Detroit Literacy Council serve a staggered three-year term and that the Commission’s Committee on Literacy serve as ex-officio on the Detroit Literacy Council.
• That the Detroit Literacy Council follow the “Roberts Rules of Order” to guide its proceedings.