A frightening statistic: 46 per cent of reading-age Australians do not have a functioning level of literacy. Almost half the population of a country that prides itself on a top-class education system cannot read newspapers, follow recipes or even understand the instructions on a medicine bottle.

It's Australia's hidden shame.

To generate awareness of this appalling statistic, taken from the Australian Bureau of Statistics' 2006 Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey, and help turn Australians into a nation of enthusiastic readers, 2012 has been designated as the National Year of Reading. The aim is to support literacy initiatives in libraries, schools, publishers, booksellers and any organisation that shares a love of reading.

The State Library of Western Australia is a proud founding partner of the National Year of Reading 2012, and Friday will see the library kickstart the year of activities with the Love2Read Cafe at the library's front entrance.

Based on the Bryant Park model in New York, the Love2Read Cafe will be an outdoor reading room filled with brightly coloured "Parisian" chairs and tables, beanbags and book trolleys featuring reading materials suitable for all ages and interests.

"The idea of taking books, newspapers and magazines outside, and creating a vibrant new space in the Cultural Centre, is an exciting new way for the State Library to encourage people to read," says acting State Library chief executive Mark Woodcook.

"It's a great opportunity for people to relax with their favourite book and enjoy a casual cafe atmosphere in a central location."

A range of activities and events suitable for diverse audiences has been organised, including author talks, children's activities, word-game afternoons, live music and screenings of classic films based on books.

"As the first event to celebrate the National Year of Reading, we're hoping people will engage with the concept and take advantage of the free events at the Love2Read Cafe at the State Library, as well as getting involved with what's happening in their local public libraries during the next twelve months," says Mr Woodcook.