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Discover the reality behind literacy rates and how adult learners navigate challenges. Learn how to assess literacy needs, recruit volunteers, and create impactful programs to promote literacy in the community.
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Libraries for Literacy Bethany Terry, VITAL Coordinator bterry@mcpl.info
False • Literacy rates are in decline • Most learners in adult literacy programs start out as non-readers • Adults use many strategies to conceal their lack of education • Most adult literacy learners are dyslexic • Literacy problems affect 47% of the US population False True False Fact or Fiction? True
Reading – “functional literacy” is the level at which people have enough reading ability to function in their daily lives. • Writing – the ability to write whatever is necessary in clear and reasonably accurate prose • Math – the ability to perform the math operations needed for everyday life (do taxes, percentage for tip, balance checkbooks, make change) • ESL – the ability to read, write, speak and listen in the majority language Components of Adult Literacy
Some groups and individuals you might encourage to participate include: • Libraries • Local government • Social service providers • Schools and other educational programs • Law enforcement • Health providers and community health programs • Employers and other members of the business community • Labor unions • Representatives of community institutions, service organizations Assemble a Planning Team
Explore a number of sources of information: • Census data and other statistical records. • School systems - dropout rates and numbers of students in special education and ESOL or bilingual programs. • Human service agencies and health providers - those unable to fill out forms, those who avoid or have obvious trouble coping with printed material, etc. • Community focus groups. • Key individuals and formal or informal groups rooted in the community. • A Quick Guide to Community Literacy Needs Assessment • National Assessment of Adult Literacy Assess the Need
Make a Plan VITAL Tutor Learner Agreement VITAL Tutoring Report
Board of Directors (Library based programs) • Legal and fiscal responsibility • Policy approval • Literacy Advisory Board • Responsible for program operations, including planning, fundraising, community outreach, etc • Policy development and recommendations Program Management
Literacy Coordinator & support staff are responsible for: • Learner outreach and recruitment • Assessing literacy skills Learner Inventory and Bader Report • Matching tutors and learners • Developing curriculum & resources VITAL Tutoring Resources • Evaluating and reporting progress • Volunteer recruitment, training and supervisionwww.proliteracy.org Program Management
Volunteers can fill many roles: • Tutors and tutor mentors • Office support • Fundraising activities • Community outreach • Developing training and resources Program Management