Libraries such as ours serve as multipurpose spaces that are used for reading, studying, collaborating, and learning. One of the objectives in the Neuse Regional Libraries Strategic Plan is to provide instructional programming that increases 21st century literacy utilizing staff expertise and strategic partnerships.The Literacy Without Barriers Adult Literacy Program is a major component of that objective and will offer adult learners one-on-one literacy tutoring by trained staff and volunteers at four Neuse Regional Libraries locations: Kinston, La Grange, Snow Hill, and Maysville. 

The Adult Literacy Program provides personalized education to adults including ESL, reading, writing, spelling, and math. Assessments are given to establish where to start and the program is for anyone at any level who wishes to improve their skills. ESL students who already speak English but wish to improve their reading and speaking skills are also a perfect fit for this program. The student’s curriculum is based on their assessments and they will receive valuable firsthand feedback that helps emulate the language. 

The primary goal of the Adult Literacy Program is to improve student’s lives. By building their math, reading, and writing skills, and by improving English for ESL learners, adults can find jobs, improve their socio-economic status, enjoy better health, and educate their own children. An increase in educational level will be the first step toward a brighter future. 

For ESL learners, there are several benefits to improving their English. They are able to communicate better with native English speakers and bridge the gap between their families and the surrounding community. Bilingual adults tend to have more employment opportunities than their monolingual colleagues. For many ESL adults, their children speak English at school but speak their first language at home. Improving their English helps them develop good language habits now and gain full fluency early in life to prepare them for future success. Building these skills improve confidence in interacting in English with children as well as in the workplace and community.

The sign up process is easy. Interested parties can visit www.neuselibrary.org/lwb/ to register or can come to any NRL library to get an application. Once the application is received, adult learners are matched with a tutor during student intake and orientation. Adult learners and tutors will meet at least once a week for a one hour-long session at a designated public library. Adult learners and tutors will set realistic goals and monitor progress. Adult learners should expect to commit to at least 6 months minimum for attending tutoring sessions, a short amount of time to realize your goals and dreams.

For more information about the program, please contact Chanda Platania at the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library by calling 252.527.7066, ext. 140. #LiteracyWithoutBarriers #LSTA #WhereCommunitiesComeTogether