The original intent of Psi Iota Xi was to bring more cultural experiences to the lives of individuals one community at a time. Music and Art was the focus initially but soon as the organization grew, literature and literacy became an added focus. 

While most Literacy projects happen locally, there have been several important initiatives at the National level.  In 1935, an annual short story contest, in which high school girls participated, became a National project and was continued for five years.  Currently, a Literature/Literacy Rotating grant is drawn each year for the Northern, Southern and Central Districts to be used in their local communities for an approved literature or literacy program.

Chapters are known for their support of the libraries and literacy programs in their communities.  Projects such as:  Psi Iota Xi Bookshelves, Literacy Camps, Summer Reading Programs, Small Little Free Libraries and Everyone Reads Programs are sponsored by Psi Ote Chapters all across our communities.