Literacy is defined by the National Institute of Literacy as “an individual’s ability to read, write, speak in English, compute and solve problems at levels of proficiency necessary to function on the job, in the family of the individual and in  society.”

An adult literacy program is much, much more than student books and teacher’s manuals. As literacy enters the list of “top ten” social concerns in the eyes of the public, it will become the priority it deserves to be. In that climate, a program that is sensitive to students, volunteers and community alike can win support and move the cause of literacy ahead.

An adult literacy program is also much, much more than a program. It is a community gift of concern and sharing, which can transform the lives of those it serves. For every   literacy student who earns a high school degree or a college diploma, for every student who holds a new job or who can read a children’s story or study the Bible — that program has opened up a whole new world.

The Library's Literacy Program 

The Mathews Memorial Library's adult literacy program is aimed at providing assistance to adult learners in the community. The program is designed to extend basic reading skills to ensure that adults can read at a functional level. The program has a three-part purpose:  To introduce basic skills, to reinforce and review those skills, and to consistently build new skills that increase a student's literacy level.

The program will be led by a library staff member serving as coordinator.  A skills assessment test will be given to place the student at an appropriate learning level. Assistance will be provided by trained tutors who work with students on an individual basis. Scheduling can be designed to meet individual needs. All  information about a program participant will remain confidential.

Mathews Memorial Library Adult Literacy Program is committed to providing students with the best assistance to reach their literacy goals.

· Free program

· Confidential

· Trained tutors

· One-on-one tutoring

· Individual scheduling

Please call the library at (804) 725-5747 for more information.