The author argues that Canada is turning a blind eye to the low literacy skills of nine million adults of working age and, in doing so, is jeopardizing future economic growth and social stability.

The author says that informal learning activities, organized locally in response to local needs, are the foundation for a literacy system because they help people gain the confidence to consider a more formal learning program. It is essential that such community-based programs be adequately funded, not just in the planning stages but during their operations.

The author also urges provincial governments to pool their knowledge and calls on the federal government to finance provincial literacy programs for Aboriginal people and immigrants, since both groups are in federal jurisdiction.