Redlands Adult Literacy Program Offered at A.K. Smiley Public Library

The Redlands Adult Literacy Program at A.K. Smiley Public Library is seeking participants, volunteers and donations.

The mission of the program is to provide "professional one-on-one tutoring in reading and writing English to adults, 18 years and older, seeking help in our community," according to program organizers.

Nearly one in five adults in the U.S. has difficulty reading job placement postings, medical directives, voting materials and other written materials, according to estimates. 

At A.K. Smiley Library, tutoring services are provided at no cost to adults, program organizers said. Lessons are individualized, confidential, and goal-oriented.

The program is looking for volunteer tutors from the Redlands area who must be at least 18 years old. No previous teaching experience is required.

Tutor qualifications include the ability to speak, read, and write English; compassion and sensitivity to adult learners' needs; and the willingness to accept training to help the learner meet his or her goals, organizers said.

The program is offered to anyone 18 years of age or older, able to understand and speak English with staff and tutors, outside a traditional high school environment, and willing to commit time and effort, according to the library.

Learners are matched with individual tutors, and are asked to make a six-month commitment to the program. Each learner meets with his or her tutor once or twice a week for 1½ to 2 hours, organizers said.

The Friends of the Library is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and in association with A. K. Smiley Library, "is committed to the life-changing benefits of literacy," organizers said.

The Redlands Adult Literacy Program does not receive financial support from the city of Redlands. Donations are welcome and needed to ensure the adult literacy program continues to serve the needs of adults in the community.

A.K. Smiley Public Library is at 125 W. Vine St.

For more information, contact the Volunteer Literacy Coordinators at (909) 798-7565, ext. 4138, or e-mail literacy@akspl.org.