How Libraries Strengthen Adult and Family Literacy, One Program at a Time

Everyone’s journey is different, and for some people, that means an unconventional education. In fact, about 59 million adults in the US have low-level literacy skills, which can contribute to systemic barriers that make certain resources difficult to access.

Public libraries connect community members with vital tools to support their educational journeys. September 14–18 is Adult Education and Family Literacy Week (AEFL), a time to share and increase access to resources that support lifelong learners. Libraries offer free classes, learning materials, and more to help adult learners succeed in their careers and beyond.

Literacy Programs

Libraries develop literacy programs for all ages. For younger children, storytimes encourage a love of reading in a stimulating learning environment. For older children and young adults, libraries host classes covering a variety of topics, including literacy.

The Camden County Library System in New Jersey offers a Basic Literacy Program providing free reading and math education for adults below a sixth-grade reading level. Participants apply to the program and, if accepted, are paired with a tutor at the library.

The Harris County Public Library in Texas offers Growing Readers Early Literacy, helping children develop early reading skills alongside their caregivers. From birth to preschool, participants sing, talk, write, read, and play to prepare for school.

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Workforce Development Resources

Trying to jumpstart your job search or seek a new career path? If it’s been a while or you don’t have much experience, the process can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, public libraries offer free, accessible workforce development resources to help. Library patrons can touch up their résumés, look up local job listings, or check out career books.

For people aiming to expand their English skills or obtain US citizenship, the Cuyahoga County Public Library provides free classes. Their Aspire Greater Cleveland program includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Additionally, participants can take classes that guide them through the naturalization process and help them pass the US Citizenship Test.

Digital Skills Training

Digital literacy is important as technology continues to advance. Librarians help young people keep up with new devices and help adults catch up. Public libraries offer classes, one-on-one assistance, and free access to technology. Some libraries even have digital librarians who specialize in archiving and staying up to date on innovations to share with the community.

The Detroit Public Library in Michigan has its own designated Technology, Literacy, & Career (TLC) Center. Community members can schedule a one-on-one résumé-building session by contacting the library via phone or email. Other services include computer classes, device help, and a literacy program.

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Community Partnerships

It can take a village to run a library, so branches sometimes partner with community organizations to help run their programs. One example is the Friends of the Hennepin County Library (HCL) in Minneapolis. According to their mission statement, the group works to “build awareness, appreciation, and support for their nationally acclaimed library.”

One program the Friends fundraise for is library outreach. In this case, the library comes to the community. Library outreach can be vital for older people and those with disabilities or illnesses. For HCL, approximately eighteen thousand items are delivered to one thousand at-home patrons with help from fundraising by the Friends of the Library.

Celebrate Adult Education and Family Literacy Week

Literacy resources increase confidence, improve job readiness, and foster stronger family learning environments. Whether you’re preparing for a GED or learning new skills, your library can help you achieve your next goal. In celebration of AEFL, explore your local branch’s adult education and family literacy programs to find out how to get involved.

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn more about our work on behalf of libraries. 

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