CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Area Literacy Council (CALiCo) met Jan. 14 to review recent activities and discuss upcoming events and priorities to expand literacy outreach in Cullman County.
The meeting marked the final formal meeting of the current school year, with planning already underway for next year. Upcoming initiatives include increased community engagement, expanded book giveaways and participation in local events to promote literacy awareness.
CALiCo announced the presentation of its Outstanding Literacy Awards to Cullman County Schools Superintendent Dr. Shane Barnette and Pre-K Director Kristy Harris. The awards were presented Jan. 15 after being postponed from the Alabama Literacy Association Fall Conference due to scheduling conflicts.
Members discussed participation in the Chamber of Commerce Mardi Gras Parade on Feb. 14, where CALiCo plans to walk the route and distribute bookmarks and informational materials. Future outreach opportunities such as Oktoberfest and the Cullman County Fair were also considered.
Additional priorities include securing grant funding to replenish book supplies for the annual Winter Wonderland book giveaway, encouraging elementary school book drives and supporting classroom libraries for new teachers. Members also discussed the future rollout of a countywide literacy bus designed to provide interactive reading experiences for students.
The council also discussed potential new partnerships with The Link of Cullman County and the Cullman County Public Library to expand access to books and literacy resources.
CALiCo is the local affiliate of the Alabama Literacy Association and the International Literacy Association. All CALiCo events are open to the public. Community members are encouraged to follow CALiCo on Facebook, attend events and consider joining the organization. Annual membership is $10.
Find CALiCo on Facebook at Facebook/Cullman Area Literacy Council.
