Can you imagine not being able to read a newspaper, a road sign or directions on a bottle of medication? Sadly, this is a reality faced by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in remote communities today.

The Indigenous Literacy Project (ILP) aims to raise literacy and improve the lives and opportunities of Indigenous Australian living in remote and isolated regions.

This is done by providing books and literacy resources to indigenous communities and raising broad community awareness of Indigenous literacy issues.

To find out more about ILP  www.indigenousliteracyproject.org.au

Up and coming ILP events include:

22 August: Songs for Stories Melbourne Concert

In collaboration with the Melbourne Writers Festival, the ILP is proud to present a benefit concert to raise urgently needed funds to address the literacy crisis in remote Indigenous communities.

Featuring Dan Sultan and his band, Megan Washington, Ursula Yovich, Maggie Noonan and others, with Andy Griffiths as host, this is a night not to be missed - and in aid of a great cause.

Sunday 22 August at the Melbourne Town Hall.

Bookings can be made at www.mwf.com.au

25 August: I Heart Art - Art Auction

Join Shaun Tan, the award-winning writer and illustrator, as he talks about creating picture books and demonstrates the creative process in action as he contemplates one of his highly-sought-after illustrations.

Raise money for the ILP by supporting this rare exhibition of paintings and drawings from Australia's best-loved children's books, including Kerry Argent, Bronwyn Bancroft, Terry Denton, Bob Graham and Julie Vivas.

All artwork will be auctioned or for sale on the night, and all proceeds go to the ILP.

The exhibition will remain on display at Kinokuniya from 26 August to 1 September.

$35 entry fee (plus booking fee) includes a special performance from internationally acclaimed musician Old Man River, light refreshments and a chance to win a beautiful limited edition Alison Lester print.

Book at www.moshtix.com.au

http://thearthousehotel.com.au

1 September: Indigenous Literacy Day

Indigenous Literacy Day is the main fundraising event for the project. Events are held in bookshop, schools, libraries and organisations across Australia on this day. Participating booksellers donate 5% (or more) of their takings from sales.

Register your bookshop at www.indigenousliteracyproject.org.au

2009 ILP Ambassadors (from left)
Andy Griffiths, Kate Grenville & David Malouf

Therese Rein at the launch of this year's ILD and Book Buzz project