What is Civic and Social Literacy?
"We envision a Pennsylvania where citizens have the knowledge and skills they need to improve their lives, to participate and contribute effectively to their communities, and to connect with one another through discourse."
Civic and social literacy skills allow you to be an informed member of society who is committed to exercising civic responsibilities. People who have civic and social literacy skills know their rights, understand history, participate in volunteer activities, and stay up-to-date on local, state, national, and world news.
Increasing Civic and Social Literacy
The Penn State University Libraries and your local public library provide access to news resources and other information sources that help you exercise your civic and social literacy skills.
Voting
- Finding Information on the 2024 General Election and CandidatesThis guide is part of our Voter Check Up workshop and will help students in the Harrisburg area prepare for the 2024 General Election.
Midterm Elections Voter Workshop Recording
- Voting and Elections GuideThis unbiased, non-partisan guide provides an overview of election laws and election-related information for Pennsylvania voters. It also provides resource and guidance on how to research candidates, parties, and political platforms.
News
- Penn State Newspaper Readership ProgramPenn State students, faculty, and staff can get free access to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal websites and apps by signing up for the newspaper readership program using their PSU email addresses. Learn how to sign up here.
History