I often mention books that seem relevant to a conversation. Since there are so many forces and opportunities to read, some degree of reading ability seems to be part of being an American adult. I guess being able to read can be assumed for most people. So, when I read that literacy rates in the US are about 80%, I am surprised. Of course, there are many definitions of reading and even of seeing. I just looked at some answers to the questions about blindness. These days, large print, braille and machines that can read aloud can make a big difference.
Various sorts of "literacy" are commonly referred to. Ads will mention places that can improve one's financial, veterinary, or nutritional literacy. In my college days, I read texts aloud to a blind professor for income. I didn't know my Greek letters at all well and there were times when I had to describe the squiggly shape of some symbols to try to convey meaning. My literacy is limited, almost completely to English.
I have found it interesting to read and think about being able to read. I read that the great French king Charlemange could not read, but wanted to and hoped to learn. I read that he kept a book under his pillow to improve his ability to learn to decipher writing.
I have been thinking about smartphone literacy. I have a semi-smartphone. It is not an Apple phone and when I see Lynn using hers, I feel deprived, under-educated, illiterate.
