Azusa Library ▬ A New Challenge

A New Challenge

Literacy Update: Summer 2020

The Literacy Office is usually buzzing with small group ESL tutoring sessions, one on one tutoring, appointment and trainings for new tutors and new learner assessments but for the past 3.5 months it has been empty. Our Adult Literacy services, as all Library program and services have moved online.

We have been fortunate to move some of our learners and tutors online but we’ve come to learn of the digital divide within our community. Our Adult Literacy Services provides online learning tools such as Reading Horizons and our Leamos program which is web based but these opportunities attract individuals who are already comfortable with the technology. Moving forward our commitment lies in reaching all our learners and creating a space where our learners feel comfortable learning to using this technology.

COVID-19 taught us we could exist in a world we never thought imaginable but if we scale it down to the small, important details we see how much we can learn. We can see how much we take for granted.

Click to listen to a conversation with Azusa City Library Manager Leila about how the library is meeting the challenges of Covid-19.  LISTEN 06:54

The Literacy Program of the Azusa City Library is committed to providing experiences for adults to change their lives and move 1 step closer to fulfilling their potential and reaching their dreams. We offer 2 basic programs:

➤ Free, 1-to-1 and small group tutoring for adults who speak English and want to improve their basic reading, writing and math skills. Trained volunteers tutor students once or twice a week, at a time convenient for both.

➤ Leamos, a free computer-based program for adults who speak Spanish but cannot read and write in Spanish. It is appropriate for adults who have 2 years or less of formal education. Volunteers assist students with their learning. This program is offered in partnership with Proliteracy.

Please call 626-812-5266
to find out when the next training is scheduled.

Automatic Readability Checker

Readability Consensus

Based on 7 readability formulas:

Grade Level: 11

Reading Level: fairly difficult to read.

Reader's Age: 15-17 yrs. old

(Tenth to Eleventh graders)

Redlands Library ▬ Adult Literacy Program Celebrates Learner-Led Book Club!

Adult Literacy Program Celebrates Learner-Led Book Club!

Tuesdays with Morrie

Redlands Reads: July 2020

Adult learners Martha Romo and Tanya Jauregui are leading the adult literacy program’s first learner-led book club. When asked why she would like to start a book club for adult learners, Tanya shared that book clubs provide an opportunity for “like-minded individuals to help and encourage each other, give everyone confidence, and build community.” Martha sees the book club as an opportunity for learners to lose their fear of reading without the support of their tutors.

Both learners know the power of reading. Martha shared that “every little thing you read opens your mind to new ideas or to better answers in your life.” Likewise, Tanya said, “Reading gives essential nutrients to the brain and helps to expand life’s journey.” The book club met for the first time only a few days prior to the library’s closure due to Covid-19.

The book club’s inaugural book was Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom, chosen by Tanya and Martha for its themes of friendship and compassion. Book club participants were fortunate to be able to get to know one another in person at this meeting. By the time the second book club discussion took place in May, the community was under stay-at-home orders and the meeting took place through Zoom.  READ MORE ➤➤

 

To learn more, join us at a Zoom Tutor Orientation.

Please call the Redlands Adult Literacy Program office at 909.798.7565, ext. 4138 or email literacy@akspl.org to sign up for the Orientation or if you have any questions.

Automatic Readability Checker

Readability Consensus

Grade Level: 10

Reading Level: standard / average.

Reader's Age: 14-15 yrs. old

(Ninth to Tenth graders)

Ventura County Library ▬ READ Adult Literacy Program

READ Adult Literacy Program

Newsletters

VC Reader: Fall 2020

The READ program is still active, we are regrouping and adapting.

Tutoring partners are not meeting in person at this time.  Many tutors are meeting with their adult students via telephone and conferencing programs.  Tutors still have access to all the familiar materials and they are delivered to your local library to be picked up with your ‘hold’ books during walk-up pick-up.

In addition, office staff are working remotely assembling a selection of new digital materials for learners at every level.

A new series of Tutor Training classes will be scheduled on ZOOM later this fall.

Interested volunteers are encouraged to call the READ office at 805-677-7159 and leave a message.

READ Adult Literacy

@vencolibrary

Our mission is to help adults improve reading and writing skills so that they perceive positive impact on their lives in such areas as self-esteem, employment, family life, and community involvement.

➤ The READ Program trains volunteers to provide free one-to-one reading and writing instruction.

➤ The Ventura County Library has been offering this program since 1984.

➤ Our administrative costs are included in the Ventura County Library's budget.

➤ Additional funding comes from partnerships with other agencies, state grants and donations from businesses and service organizations.

Tutoring Sites

Instruction takes place in library, school, community and jail facilities throughout Ventura County.

These sites are managed by part-time professional educators, referred to as site supervisors.

Site supervisors are available during specified times to assess learner's reading levels, interview tutors, match students with tutors, recommend teaching materials and provide support for learning partners.

Ways to Support Literacy

➤ Become a volunteer
➤ Display a READ Program poster at work
➤ Include READ Program information in your office or church newsletter.
➤ Invite READ Program staff to speak at your meetings.
➤ Make a donation. Gifts are gratefully accepted and promptly acknowledged.

Tutor Training Information

Student Information

Career Online HS

Automatic Readability Checker

Readability Consensus

Based on 7 readability formulas:

Grade Level: 12

Reading Level: difficult to read.

Reader's Age: 17-18 yrs. old

(Twelfth graders)

 

 

Camarena Library ▬ First Virtual Tutor Meeting on August 17

First Virtual Tutor Meeting on August 17

The Literacy Place: August 2020

Our first virtual tutor meeting will be on August 17 via Zoom. It has been some months since we've held our regular tutor meetings, as they were previously held in the library. Now, we will hold our meetings online in order to check in and collaborate with each other. Since tutors are the backbone of our Adult Literacy Services, these meetings will focus on tutors' needs and concerns. During this month's meeting, we will discuss adapting to virtual tutor sessions, goal-setting for learners, and the many workbooks and resources the ALS program offers.

Workforce Literacy Workshops in Development

The COVID-19 public health crisis has worsened an already high unemployment rate in Imperial County--27.3% as of June 2020, according to the Employment Development Department of California. Because of this urgent need, the Adult Literacy Services program is responding by developing several workshops for adult learners. These workshops, which begin in September, will aim to help learners build confidence, explore career options, prepare for interviews, build their communication skills, market their skills, and conduct effective job searches.

Our literacy program is also working with existing community organizations to help learners receive the support they need during these times. The main purpose of these workshops is to assist learners with employment goals and direct them to the social services they need.  READ MORE ➤➤

Call the library at (760) 768-2170 to set up an appointment.

Automatic Readability Checker

Readability Consensus

Based on 7 readability formulas:

Grade Level: 12

Reading Level: difficult to read.

Reader's Age: 17-18 yrs. old

(Twelfth graders)

Los Angeles Public Library ─ It’s a Match ─ Adult Literacy Services

It’s a Match

Adult Literacy Services Spring 2020 Newsletter

READ: Spring 2020

About It’s a Match A special relationship is created when a tutor and learner are successfully matched together. It’s A Match allows tutors and learners to express how they feel about their match in their own words.

Marleny Moreno By Tutor Jonathan Lesser

As a tutor, I have been working with Marleny for 2 years and I continue to be impressed with her dedication and her progress every time we meet. What is most impressive to me about Marleny is her continued dedication to improving her reading, writing, and speaking skills. In addition to our tutoring sessions, she has also attended English language classes at a local adult school, and is always looking for additional opportunities to learn and to practice.

Marleny also writes pieces in her spare time to practice her English on topics of interest to her, and proudly submits her work to any writing challenge or call for articles that she sees. I am fortunate for the opportunity to hear about her life and to see how she expresses herself on things that are meaningful to her.

═════════►

Thank You Jonathan By Learner Marleny Moreno

It’s my turn.

It is time to talk about my amazing tutor Jonathan Lesser. I’ll always be very grateful to Jonathan for all he has taught me since March 10, 2018 until now.

I have learned a lot from him. He is a very good teacher. I admire him because he is active and also has a lot of energy to teach me after his job. When I started to meet him I did not have the ability to talk and write in English like today. In our meeting we have conversations. If I make a mistake he corrects me. In addition, he teaches me how to pronounce and write words that I write incorrectly. When I read to him, he asks me questions about what I read. Also I have to write about what I read. I always see him happy. In his spare time, he plays guitar and plays very well.   READ MORE ➤➤

Automatic Readability Checker

Readability Consensus

Based on 7 readability formulas:

Grade Level: 7

Reading Level: fairly easy to read.

Reader's Age: 11-13 yrs. old

(Sixth and Seventh graders)

Carlsbad Library ◯ New Year, New Beginnings

New Year, New Beginnings

Learning Connection: Jan/Feb 2020 by Carrie Scott, Community Outreach Supervisor

Happy New Year! For many, this can be a time of new beginnings. We often want to set goals for our health, finances and learning, but it is easy to get overwhelmed and then  not do anything!

One of my favorite personal mottos is, “You have to start before you can finish.” So as you think about what goals you want to set for the new year, consider starting small. Start by walking one minute. Start by drinking one cup of water. Start by saving one dollar. Start by writing one sentence. Start by reading one paragraph. Pick any goal that you want, then start today and repeat tomorrow. Before you know it, you will be building on your success!

As you plan which goals to work on, consider investing in yourself by meeting consistently with your learning partner this year. We require that each pair meet nine hours per month, which is about 100 hours per year.

=

Why so much focus on attendance? Because it makes a big difference in learning. Adults who participate in a literacy program show future increases in literacy levels, income, and future enrollment in education, especially for those who meet 100 hours or more.

We encourage you to start 2020 with an emphasis on attendance: Make it a priority to attend all of your scheduled sessions. Schedule make-up sessions when you miss. (Remember that we are open on Saturdays!) At the end of each month, review and discuss your attendance as a pair. Wishing you a great 2020!  READ MORE >>

Next Tutor Orientation

Feb 13 ◯ 6 pm

Rewordify

Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 6.7

Lexical Density: 62.4%

Total word count 250

Unique word count 156

7 hard words

Sentence count 21

Average sentence length 11.9

Huntington Beach Library ◯ Literacy Autumn Newsletter

Autumn 2019 Newsletter

Literacy Volunteers-HBPL

Throughout the 2019 summer we held many classes and workshops, including a June 5 Grammar Sleuth class, which broke down and built back up sentences with diagramming exercises, and most recently a "Writing Workshop" to teach tutors how to help their learners to love to write. We also have ongoing Citizenship Classes at both tutoring sites (Oak View and Central libraries).

On October 12, 2019, Literacy Volunteers partnered with Dyslexia Voice, for their "Dyslexia Awareness and Education Event".  An estimated 70 to 80% of people with poor reading skills are likely dyslexic; and 5 to 15% of children and adults in the U.S. have dyslexia, so teaming with Dyslexia Voice was a natural fit. There was a tremendous line-up of speakers in the theater, an area for exhibitors, a breakout area for light snacks and drinks, and a crafts room for children. So much information was shared, so many voices spoke for this important cause, and all who attended made the day a success.  READ MORE >>

Next Tutor Training

Jan 23 ◯ 6 – 8:30 pm

Completion of online Tutor Orientation prior to enrollment is required.

Contact the Literacy office at Central, 714.375.5102

or literacy@surfcity-hb.org for more information.

Placentia Library ◯ Meet Our Learners And Tutors

Meet Our Learners And Tutors

Placentia Library Explore: Sep 2019-Feb 2020

Jan shares her experience tutoring her learner, Bao: A quote from Winston Churchill sums up my experience with my adult learner, Bao – “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.”

As a former teacher and administrator, I have found that a student’s attitude is an important determiner of future success. From our first meeting three months ago, it was evident that Bao was a determined and committed learner. Her desire to strengthen her communication skills, both in writing and speaking, has guided our weekly learning sessions.

To achieve these goals, we have discussed current events, increased knowledge of content vocabulary and integrated writing skills through the reading of a weekly newsletter, “News for You.” In addition, we are enjoying reading a novel that supports Bao’s comprehension, vocabulary, writing and reading fluency. Connecting her prior knowledge and life experiences with her learning goals has allowed her to make great strides towards the achievement of her goals.

The Placentia Library’s adult literacy program has allowed me to re-connect with my passion for teaching and share my experience with an enthusiastic and dedicated adult.

Next Volunteer Orientation

Dec 15 ◯ 2 pm – 3:45 pm

Next Tutor Training

Dec 21 ◯ 9 am – 12:30 pm

If you are interested in becoming a Literacy Tutor

call 714-528-1906 ext. 214 for details

Newport Beach Library :: Happy Hour with Steven Rowley

Happy Hour with Steven Rowley

Literally Speaking: Nov/Dec 2019

Bestselling author Steven Rowley joined Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy on October 26th for NMPL's 4th Annual Happy Hour. Over 120 guests mingled in the Bamboo Courtyard under the beautiful evening sky.

Mr. Rowley spent time chatting with fans of his work. He signed copies of his best-seller, Lily & the Octopus and new book, The Editor.

Guests also joined in lively conversations over wine and cheese before making their way to the Friends Room for the Author Talk and question/answer time. Steven spoke about his journey to become an author that started in his childhood and later life experiences.  READ MORE >>

Next Tutor Training

January 8 & 15

5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Prospective tutors must attend both sessions to complete training. 

Reservations for this training are required.

Online Orientation must be completed before attending Training.

New Learner Orientation

January 7

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Newport Beach Library :: A Full House for International Literacy Day

A Full House for International Literacy Day

Literally Speaking: Sept / Oct 2019

Advisory Board President, Eve-Marie Kuntzman, warmly welcomed the room to International Literacy Day. She then introduced Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy Coordinator Cherall Weiss, who emphasized and spoke of the importance of literacy skills in our society.

Newport Beach City Councilman Will O’Neill took to the podium to introduce the learners who have recently become United States citizens. Congratulations to Siamak  Lotfisafiabady and Flora Maleki!

To illustrate the significance of the program, and to showcase the progress of

Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy’s adult learners, every guest received a copy of “In Our Own Words”, a collection of stories, essays and recipes written by the learners of the program.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious meat and cheese arrangement generously donated by Pavilions and an international potluck provided by adult learners.

A highlight of the celebration was honoring the graduates of Career Online High School. In 2017, Newport Beach Public Library and Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy joined together to help adults in the area achieve their goal to obtain a High School Diploma. Three students have completed the full curriculum which includes Language Arts, Math Social Studies and Science. Mayor Diane Dixon presented diplomas to the hard working graduates: Azucena Ponce, Isabel Sevilla and Valedictorian, Beverly Haddock. Beverly gave an inspiring and uplifting speech.  READ MORE >>

Newport Beach Library :: 2019 Gift of Literacy Luncheon

2019 Gift of Literacy Luncheon

Literally Speaking: May/June 2019

@NMProLiteracy

Over 200 people attended the 12th annual Gift of Literacy Luncheon held at the Pacific Club in Newport Beach on April 5, 2019. This year’s keynote speaker, Lisa See, spoke about her newly-released (and bestselling) novel, The Island of Sea Women. Each guest received a copy that Ms. See was happy to personalize. Attendees perused the many silent auction and raffle items before being seated and welcomed by professional emcee, Michael Villani. Mr. Villani introduced Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy (NMPL) Event Committee Chair, Helene Chaban who "got things rolling.”

Helene introduced some special guests and spoke movingly about how much the program means to her. She then introduced literacy coordinator, Cherall Weiss, who talked about how having literacy issues makes life a struggle, citing the real life example of a diabetic male who couldn’t read his insulin dosage and how the program has grown with the help of so many generous donors. Then, Ms. Weiss introduced the Learner Speaker, Candace Kirby.

Candace came to NMPL because, even though she was born and raised right here in California, she could not read well enough to help her own two children. She spoke of how she struggled through school and then struggled with the realization that her boys struggled because she could not help them. That is going to change! The Gift of Literacy luncheon is the largest fundraiser of the year for NMPL. This year, the event raised funds to support the ongoing needs of the program.  READ MORE >>

Happy Hour with Author Steven Rowley

October 26 :: 6 pm

Newport Beach Public Library

Camarena Library :: Why Is Literacy Important?

Why Is Literacy Important?

The Literacy Place: Sep 2019

Literacy is important because it is the foundation upon which people are able to interact with the world, educate themselves, and thus contribute to society as well as their own well being.

This is a brief interview from one of our tutors, Mark Hurych. He is a retired teacher who is very passionate about helping others improve their literacy skills.

1. Why do you volunteer your time to help adults with their literacy skills?

“Personally I find that when I have the opportunity to support someone in meeting their needs for being able to speak their mind I feel grateful. I feel I am a better person for it.”

2. What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a literacy tutor?

“I guess if your head is in it and your heart is in it, your head and your heart sort of get paid like this: I tell my students they have to SPEND time and PAY attention to improve their skill sets. In the end I feel like I'm paid in full.”

“In conclusion, adult learners, and the need for improved adult literacy, deserve our attention and efforts because these people deserve the opportunity not just to survive, but to flourish!

Newport Beach Library :: Literacy Bingo

Literacy Bingo Is Coming . . .

Newport/Mesa ProLiteracy

Literally Speaking: Mar/Apr 2019

BINGO is a classic game that most people are familiar with.

Did you know that BINGO actually dates back to Italy in the 1500’s? And it is still as popular as ever in schools, churches, community centers and now.... LITERACY.

From March 1st to March 31st all learners are encouraged to participate in a game of literacy BINGO.

Read, Connect, Discover challenges the learner community to read various genres, connect with other community members, and discover new experiences.

Orange squares = READ

example – read a memoir or biography

Blue squares = CONNECT

example – swap recipes with a friend

Green squares = DISCOVER

example – visit a local, state or national park

The Literacy BINGO challenge runs from March 1 – March 31, 2019.

How to Play

Pick up your NMPL Bingo Card from the Literacy office and make sure you are registered.

Complete 5 squares in a row (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal) to make a Bingo.

Write what you read or did in each square.

Raffle tickets awarded for each Bingo.

Drawings to be held each Monday from 3/11/19

Grand prize raffle ticket awarded for completing all 25 squares.

Bingo card entries accepted through

Have Fun

Enjoy reading books in your favorite format: books, eBooks, audio books.

Check out resources in the Literacy Office and library to complete a square.

Need help with any square? Ask a librarian.

Prizes

Raffle tickets earned for each Bingo achieved may be entered for gifts.

Grand Prize Raffle will be held the first week of April.

Tutor Workshop :: July 17 & 24

5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Tutors are required to complete online orientation (approximately 20 minutes)and attend tutor training. Orientation must be completed before attending the training sessions. Online orientations can be taken at any time.

You must complete and submit the online application at the end of the orientation in order to be scheduled for one of our Tutor Training sessions.

Huntington Beach Library :: Literacy Update - Spring

Literacy Volunteers-HBPL News

Greetings dear reader!

Spring 2019

It has been forever and a day since our last newsletter. If you've been staying in touch with us via social media, you'll know how busy we have been in the past few months.

On November 1, 2018 learners and tutors spoke on behalf of the literacy programs for our application for Community Development Block Grant Funds. One of our learners, Maribet, shares her speech in our newsletter. It is a wonderful reminder of why we are all committed to literacy and changing learner's lives.

"Welcome to our Oak View Branch Library. I hope you enjoy this wonderful day and continue to enjoy.  It's an honor to stand here in front of you and at the same time, a challenge for me to say these words in English. My name is Maribet. I am married and God blessed me with a son. He is seven years old and my son is the reason I decided to come to the library and learn English.

Why my son is the reason? I said to myself my son is growing up. He is going to speak English and I want to understand what he says. When my son started kindergarten, the homework they gave him should have been simple for an adult to be able to help him but I could not help him. Not because I didn't want to help him, but I didn't understand what he needed to do. And my son realized that I didn't know English. He asked me "Mami, why do you not understand English, didn't you go to school?"  READ MORE >>

Next Tutor Training

July 10, 17 and 24

Completion of online Tutor Orientation prior to registration is required

Email literacy@surfcity-hb.org for details

714 . 375 . 5102