Ronald Reagan

“ That goal alone should mobilize us to make ours a fully literate Nation, because our history demonstrates that literacy and real political freedom go hand in hand. Our Nation's heritage of liberty and self-government depends on a literate, informed citizenry. ”

“ For these reasons and more, the ability and opportunity to read are of fundamental importance to everyone. The National Commission on Reading, the Librarian of Congress, and others have recently reported that an alarmingly large number of Americans are not able or motivated to read. The Center for the Book in the Library of Congress also has noted the importance of focusing national attention on the importance of reading and strengthening national and local efforts to give all Americans the beauty, the promise, and the gift of reading. ”

“ The ability to read and write effectively is essential to the vitality of the mind and to success and accomplishment in every field of endeavor. Some with the ability to read may seldom think of the blessings it bestows, but, sadly, those without it know the difficulty they have in leading fully satisfying lives. ”