More than 130 million Americans—roughly 54 percent of adults between the ages of 16 and 74—struggle with low literacy. A recent report from the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy found that getting all U.S. adults to literacy proficiency would generate an additional $2.2 trillion in annual income for the country. Improved literacy rates have the power to strengthen our economy by boosting labor productivity and breaking the cycle of poverty for families in need.

Counties have a key role to play in identifying, assessing and addressing current barriers to economic mobility. Data show that income is strongly related to literacy and adults who achieve proficiency earn significantly more than those who do not. Through initiatives at local libraries and in partnership with workforce development, education and community-based organizations, counties are connecting residents to resources and programs that can improve their literacy skills and overall well-being. Join us November 17, 1pm ET to hear from experts at the Barbara Bush Foundation and county leaders on how improving literacy benefits our economy and what your county can do to boost literacy rates.