Orange Co Library - READ/Orange County - National Literacy Month

National Literacy Month

katydiddys is offering Literary Cupcake Notecards!

5% of profits (and FREE shipping) will be donated to the Friends of READ Orange County, an organization that supports the adult literacy program of the Orange County Public Library.

Click here to order.

SCLLN Literacy Library Calendar - September 2007

Southern California Library Literacy Network

Event Calendar: September 2007

- visit SCLLN for more events -

Sep 6: Annual Celebration of Literacy – Newport Beach Public Library
Presenter: Newport Beach Public Library. Contact: Literacy Office. Thursday, September 6, 2007, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Newport Beach Public Library 1000 Avacado Newport Beach CA 92660. For more info visit
http://www.newportliteracy.org/.

Sep 8: Walk A Mile For Literacy – Hemet Public Library
2nd Annual $10.00 - Adults $ 5.00 - Children, 5-12 Prizes. Ticket Phone: (951)765-3856. Contact: Hemet Public Library Adult Literacy Services. Saturday, September 8, 2007, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Hemet Public Library Adult Literacy Services 315 E Latham Hemet CA. For more info visit
http://www.cityofhemet.org/library/literacy.htm

Sep 8: Central Coast Book & Author Festival – San Luis Obispo Co. Library Saturday, September 8, 2007, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Mission Plaza San Luis Obispo CA. For more info visit
http://www.ccbookfestival.org/

Sep 8: Spelling Bee Fundraiser - Santa Maria City Library
Help the free Santa Maria City Library Literacy program. Presenter: Central Coast Literacy Council. Ticket Phone: (805)922-9200. Contact: Central Coast Literacy Council. Saturday, September 8, 2007, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Souza Center 708 S Miller Santa Maria CA. For more info visit
centralcoastliteracy.org

Sep 15: Spellabration-Ice Cream Social - Orange Public Library
1st Annual Spelling Bee 3-person teams: $225 Prizes. Age Range: All Ages. Ticket Phone: 714.288.2474. Ticket Web Link: http://www.cityoforange.org/library. Contact: Orange Public Library. Saturday, September 15, 2007. Orange Public Library 407 E Chapman Orange CA 92866. For more info visit
http://www.cityoforange.org/depts/library/bee/default.asp

Sep 28: Scrabble Fundraiser - Santa Barbara Public Library
Stand Up And Spell - Scrabble Challenge Kick-Off event for the Santa Barbara Book & Author Festival Entry Fee: $20.00. Presenter: Santa Barbara Public Library. Age Range: Families. Ticket Phone: (805)546-5619. Contact: bschwartzberger@santabarbara.gov. Friday, September 28, 2007, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM. Santa Barbara Public Library Faulkner Gallery 40 E Anapamu Santa Barbara CA. For more info visit
http://www.sbplibrary.org/

Sep 30: Celebrating Literacy & Multiculture - Santa Maria
Second Annual. Presenter: Central Coast Literacy Council. Ticket Phone: (805)922-9200. Contact: Central Coast Literacy Council. Sunday, September 30, 2007, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Santa Maria City Library Santa Maria CA. For more info visit
centralcoastliteracy.org

Santa Barbara Library - Montecito Literacy Program Volunteers

Montecito Literacy Program VolunteersMontecito Journal: August 30, 2007
Our Town By Joanne A. Calitri

As a core educational foundation, reading is an assumed skill, but there are some adults who’ve never mastered the skill. Help has been available for over 20 years in the form of the Adult Literacy Program run by the Santa Barbara County Library. Literacy Program Volunteers have been helping countless people from every developmental level and age range, to learn to read, and read well. The program is currently headed by Beverly Schwartzberg, the Adult Literacy Coordinator.

Bev and five of her fourteen Montecito literacy volunteers met with us recently to discuss the program. Those volunteers were 13-year veteran Joy Winer, 6-year volunteer Nancy Simon, 2-year volunteer Kristy McLoughlin and newbies Ethel Scar and Bonnie R. Corman, PhD. Unable to make the meeting were Jolene DeLisa, Elaine Heavner, Sherry Melchiorre, Gail Harling. The other five volunteers wished to remain anonymous.

Anyone wishing to become a tutor must first enroll in a nine-hour training course and make a six-month commitment to be a tutor in the program. The literacy program is free for students, and each student receives one-on-one tutoring. This aspect of the program was unanimously lauded as the key ingredient for the success of the tutoring, and the key factor that appealed to our Montecito literacy volunteers.

“One-on-one tutoring is personal… it creates a friendship…” said Joy, who had worked for many years in a corporate environment. She stated that the one-on-one focus is important, as for most students, learning in a classroom full of students is difficult.

Ethel is a first generation American. Her parents had to learn English and her grandparents never did, which made communication difficult. Being a literacy volunteer allows her to teach others how to read.

Kristy had been a school psychologist in the Santa Barbara school district for 20 years. Her focus as a tutor is to help parents, so they in turn can help their children with homework and other school related areas. For Beverly, this was the first volunteer job she had taken right out of college, as she could not imagine life without reading.

If you would like to become a tutor, the next tutor training course is Wednesday and Thursday, August 29 and 30, at the Central Library, 40 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara, CA.

"Stand Up and Spell!", the program’s second annual Scrabble Challenge, will be held Friday September 28, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Faulkner Gallery, Santa Barbara Public Library, 40 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara.

For more information, contact Beverly Schwartzberg - Phone: (805) 564-5619 or: bschwartzberg@santabarbaraca.gov

San Bernardino Co Library - Volunteer of the month makes a difference

Volunteer of the month makes a difference
Dailybulletin.com: Aug 23, 2007

Janet Wirtz was named Chino Hills volunteer of the month for August.

Question: Why did you start volunteering in Chino Hills?
Answer: I have been volunteering whereever I've lived since I was about 21 years old. So it wasn't if I was going to volunteer, but what I was going to do. I believe in making other peoples' lives easier. One of the ways I can do this is by volunteering.

Q: What programs have you volunteered with? What kind of work do you do with those programs?
A: Helped coordinate events at a museum in St. Paul, Minn.; ushered at a theater in Phoenix; Helped out with the Boy Scouts by picking up their awards and badges; delivered bread to Hillview Acres through St. Vincent de Paul; worked at a food pantry and helped fill food boxes for needy families during Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons; taught a religion class; ushered and typed up usher schedule for a local church; taught a student English, through the Library Literacy Program; mentored an inmate at California Institution for Women through Match 2; delivered meals to inbound residents through Caring for the Hills; helped out at my son's schools; scrapbooked for the Inland Hills Church "Prayer Quilt Program"; and processed utility bills for the city of Chino Hills.

Q: You mentored an inmate at California Institution for Women. What was that experience like?
A: It was very educational. I hope I was able to make a difference in someone else's life.

Q: What were you honored for at the Chino Hills City Council meeting?
A: I was selected as the city's Highlighted Volunteer for August 2007. Since March 2007, I have been assisting in the finance department, opening water bills every Monday and Tuesday.

Q: What has been your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
A: The latest is being honored by the city for my time. But all of my experiences are great because I enjoy meeting the nicest people and feeling more connected to my community.

Q: What kind of work did you do before you became a volunteer?
A: My last paying job, for 10 years, was as an Intelligence Research Specialist for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, in Washington, D.C., and Phoenix.

Newport Beach Library - Library to celebrate International Literacy Day

Library to celebrate International Literacy DayDaily Pilot: Aug 27, 2007: by Joseph Serna

Newport Beach Public Library Literacy Services will be celebrating International Literacy Day on Thursday, Sept. 6.

The day’s program will focus on the importance of literacy outreach in the community and will recognize the contributions of the many volunteers and tutors that work in the local literacy program, as well as the learners who work hard to acquire new skills.

This year’s theme, “Unlock the Potential,” is fitting because the program will honor Rochelle Hoffman award recipient Donnie Madril, a truck driver who needed help with spelling and reading in order to complete the forms and reports necessary for work.

Two local finalists in the California Library Literacy Services “Writer to Writer” challenge will also be recognized.

The program will be from 10 a.m. to noon in the Friends Meeting Room at the Central Library, 1000 Avocado Ave. in Newport Beach.

Tutor Training - September 2007

Southern California Library Literacy Network
Tutor Workshops: September 2007

Newport Beach Public Library: Sep 6
Contact: Literacy Office. Thursday, September 6, 2007, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Newport Beach Public Library 1000 Avacado Newport Beach CA 92660. For more info visit

www.newportliteracy.org

READ/Orange County: Sep 11
Must attend Tutor Information Meeting to register for September workshops. Presenter: READ/Orange County. Ticket Phone: (714)566-3067. Contact: READ/Orange County. Tuesday, September 11, 2007, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Westminster Library 8180 13th Westminster CA. For more info visit
www.readoc.org.

San Diego County Library: Sep 12
Presenter: LEARN. Ticket Phone: (888)466-0668. Contact: San Diego County Library. Wednesday, September 12, 2007, 5:30 PM – Thursday, September 13, 2007, 8:00 PM. El Cajon Branch El Cajon CA. For more info visit
www.sdcl.org.

READ/Orange County: Sep 12
Must attend Tutor Information Meeting to register for September workshops. Presenter: READ/Orange County. Ticket Phone: (714)566-3067. Contact: READ/Orange County. Wednesday, September 12, 2007, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Costa Mesa Library 1855 Park Ave Costa Mesa CA. For more info visit
www.readoc.org.

Oceanside Public Library – Youth Literacy: Sep 12
Orientation Training - Sep 15: 9 am - 1:30 pm 760 . 435 . 5680. Presenter: Oceanside Public Library. Ticket Phone: (760)435-5680. Contact: Oceanside READS. Wednesday, September 12, 2007, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM. Mission Branch Library 3861 Mission Ave Oceanside CA. For more info visit
www.library.ci.oceanside.ca.us.

Glendora Public Library – Dyslexia Workshop: Sep 15
FREE No registration required Anyone is welcome to attend. Presenter: Glendora Public Library. Ticket Phone: 626.852.4891. Contact: Mary Pat Dodson. Saturday, September 15, 2007, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Glendora Public Library Bidwell Forum 140 S Glendora Glendora CA 91741. For more info visit

www.glendoralibrary.org

Los Angeles Public Library: Sep 15
All Volunteers must be Interviewed First ! Contact: 213 . 228 . 7037. Presenter: Los Angeles Public Library. Ticket Phone: (213)228-7037. Contact: Literacy Office. Saturday, September 15, 2007, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Mid-Valley Regional Branch 16244 Nordhoff St North Hills CA 91343. For more info visit

www.lapl.org.

San Diego County Library: Sep 15
Presenter: LEARN. Ticket Phone: (888)466-0668. Contact: San Diego County Library. Saturday, September 15, 2007, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 4S Ranch Branch San Diego CA. For more info visit
www.sdcl.org.

Pasadena Public Library: Sep 18
Orientation: Must Attend Also Workshops on: Sep 19, 25 and 27. Presenter: Pasadena READS. Contact: rjaquez@cityofpasadena.net. Tuesday, September 18, 2007, 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM. La Pintoresca Branch 1355 N Raymond Pasadena CA 91103. For more info visit
www.ci.pasadena.ca.us.

San Diego County Library: Sep 29
Presenter: LEARN. Ticket Phone: (888)466-0668. Contact: San Diego County Library. Saturday, September 29, 2007, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Ramona Branch San Diego CA. For more info visit

www.sdcl.org.

National City Library - Book lover retires after 26 years as city librarian

Book lover retires after 26 years as city librarian
San Diego Union-Tribune: July 6, 07: by Tanya Sierra

Anne Campbell always knew she wanted to be a librarian. Her passion for books started as a young girl, when she would lock herself in her bedroom and journey into the worlds depicted on the pages she read.

The addiction was so strong that her mother restricted the number of books she could check out from the city library to five per week. “I would stay up until 3 or 4 in the morning reading,” she said. “In seventh grade I wrote a letter to the American Library Association and asked, 'How do I become a librarian?' ”

Campbell, National City's head librarian, retired this week after 26 years of forging a relationship with the city's readers.

The 59-year-old, who grew up in Denver, didn't deviate from the path the library association outlined for her in its response. Even during her teen years, when rebellion can sometimes set in, Campbell never strayed far from the library.

“The library was where I was meant to be,” Campbell said.

Just as Campbell knew her career path, she knew National City needed a strong library program for its many students and illiterate adults.

In the working-class city, 36 percent of the population – the highest rate in the county – is illiterate and more than 40 percent didn't finish high school.

Campbell arrived at the National City Public Library in 1981.

“You could have rolled a bowling ball in the library because no one came in,” she said. “They were running the library like it was the 1960s.”

Although National City has always been diverse, a large immigrant population began settling in the city during the '70s and early '80s, Campbell said. Many families weren't aware the library was a place where they could check out books for free or get literacy services.

She began with an adult reading program, which expanded to a family program. Soon a Words on Wheels mobile library service was sent into neighborhoods to entice children to read.

“If you raise the literacy rate of a community, then you raise the socioeconomic status of the community,” Campbell said.

Perhaps her biggest feat was getting overwhelming community support for a bond in 2002 for a new, $17 million library.

At the time, city officials applied for a state grant, but first needed local funding in place. They had to move fast to get a $6 million bond measure on the ballot for March 2002, three months before the state application was due.

In an extremely competitive process, National City was the only city in the county to win a library grant in the first selection round. The grant provided $11.1 million. Private donations added $1.3 million.

The 50,000-square-foot library opened in August 2005. It's so popular that a line of people is often waiting at the door when it opens.

Running a busy library takes work, and Campbell is a serious woman with high expectations – sometimes too high, say those who have worked with her.

Some union employees felt uncomfortable because they were asked to work community events off the clock, and felt Campbell didn't support their union activities, said James Slade, the Municipal Employees Union president.

“I just know she was a difficult person to work with and our municipal employees always had an issue,” he said, adding that the union has filed a grievance against her.

When asked about Slade's comments, Campbell said she didn't know of any conflicts.

Councilman Luis Natividad, who credits Campbell with running a top-notch city library, said he would have liked a closer City Hall-library relationship.

“There was a distance between the library and the City Council,” he said, adding, “She's very passionate about the library.”

Campbell admits to giving her all to the library, even tearing up when she described what it means to the community.

“It's free, it's open, it nourishes the mind but also the soul,” she said.

Campbell, who is also a National School District trustee, plans to continue her elected work, volunteer at the library and spend time with family during the next phase of her life. She is married and has a grown son.

“Retirement looks fabulous,” she said. “I worked really hard.”

San Bernardino County Library - Teaching adults survival literacy returns

Teaching adults survival literacy returnsThe Sun: July 27, 2006 by Andrea Bennett

The revitalization of a program that helps area adults learn to read and which lost the wind in its sails for almost a year, rests in the youthful but capable hands of Cesar Lara, 24.

As the new literacy specialist at the Highland Branch Library, Lara appears to be just the right man for the job.

"I recruit adult learners who don't know how to read or write and I recruit tutors, and I match them up and they just kind of work on their own," Lara said.

The library's Adult Literacy Program faced a period of relative dormancy in September 2005, when then-literacy specialist Pat Purcio fell ill but retained the position until March.

Elizabeth Castillo, library assistant at the Highland Branch, said the program, and the many people it helped, suffered as a result.

"It stopped everything because the tutors we had didn't know where to go or what to do. There was no one to guide them," Castillo said. "Also there were people asking for tutors and we didn't have any."

Lara had been working as a library page for a year and a half when he was promoted to his current position, and already he has had an impact.

"I've got a handful of tutors and learners now," Lara said. "There are actually more learners than tutors, because a lot of people out there are illiterate. But hopefully -- little by little -- I can bring the program back to what it was."

His objective is to find at least 20 people in the community, with both a high school education and a desire to help others, who can volunteer at least once a week as a tutor.

Though Lara promotes the free tutoring through word-of- mouth, he said there is no real shortage of adult learners in the community.

"Actually a lot of people come in and ask for tutors, so the word gets out there," Lara said. "A lot of times, they come in here to learn the little things first. They want to set up an e-mail account or they want to be able to write checks."

Harriet Foucher, Highland Branch librarian, said illiteracy is a rampant reality in the community and the program works to amend the social epidemic.

"The statistics keep showing us that 1 in 5 people need help reading," Foucher said. "They can't read things like prescriptions, they lack survival literacy, and these people fall through the cracks. They don't do well with group education situations, so we do one-on-one tutoring, where the tutor and new reader set goals together and work to achieve those goals."

Foucher said there are multiple things that push adults to finally seek literacy.

"Some need a GED for a job, or a driver's license. Many parents need it when their children start school. I think some want to read the Bible," she said. "There is a segment of the population that wants to be able to read. With the changes in welfare, they have to get some kind of job, and reading is so important to every job you do."

It's Lara's job to find an appropriate tutor to match with the individual and assist him or her in reaching set goals.

Due to the shortage of volunteer tutors, however, a surplus of adult learners -- Spanish speaking, or not -- who want to learn to read and write are forced to sit on a waiting list, he said.

The act of seeking help itself can be daunting for people who cannot read, so Lara said he does his best to ease their fears.

"It's difficult for some people because they're so intimidated when they come in," he said. "But the first step is to get in here and ask for help, and I've just got to reassure them they are going to get help."

His easygoing and nonjudgmental attitude makes Lara approachable to learners and the fact that he is bilingual helps calm nervous English learners.

As one who relishes reading and has devoted the past four years to libraries, Lara serves as a prime example of the joys of literacy.

"I like to read nonfiction. I figure if it's not true, why bother?" said Lara, whose favorite book is "The Motorcycle Diaries" and current read is "The Valachi Papers." "I love to read and I love the people who come in and out of the library. They have the same interests as I do -- reading and learning."

At only 24, Lara has already done some serious life learning after getting married at age 20. He and his wife, Virginia, 24, met their first semester at San Bernardino Valley College, and as Lara said, "It just felt right."

"When you're young and in love, you don't know any better," Lara said. "It's hard when you marry young, and you're still in school, with a part-time job, and struggling with money. We matured a lot and learned a lot about each other during that time."

Presently, Lara and his wife live in San Bernardino with their white Pomeranian, Q-Tip. Lara also works part-time as a bilingual tutor for Yucaipa School District, while Virginia works as a special education tutor for Pacific High School.

Lara returned to Valley College last fall, as waiting until his wife graduated from Cal State San Bernardino, was more financially feasible for the young couple. He said he plans to teach elementary school in the future, but the library will still likely be part of his life.

"I want to be here as long as possible, especially next year when we move to the new library," Lara said. "Hopefully, I can start English improvement classes there. Also, we'll have a literacy lab there."

The Adult Literacy Program is up and running under Lara, but there is still much to do in order to meet the literacy needs of the community effectively.

"We have a lot of low-income people in the area who want to improve their lives, but they don't have the time or money to go to college, especially when they have 3 jobs, but they want something better," Castillo said. "I think this program will help them a lot."

Lara is acutely aware of the struggle for self-improvement, and the library staff say his patience, passion and personable nature are certain to breathe new life into a program that makes a real difference in the lives of those in the community.

"Over the 21 years I've been here, I have seen a number of people get that little boost with tutoring to go on and do better things with their lives," Foucher said. "You have to overcome the attitude, 'I can't do it.' In a way, we're just being cheerleaders and encouraging people to use the skills they already have."

For more information about the Adult Literacy Program, contact Cesar Lara, literacy specialist, at the Highland Branch Library at (909) 862-6469 or visit 27167 Base Line in Highland.

Tutor Training - August 2007

Southern California Library Literacy Network
Tutor Workshops: August 2007
Tutor Training - San Diego County Library - Aug 9
Tutor Workshops and Events Presenter: LEARN. Ticket Phone: (888)466-0668. Contact: San Diego County Library. Wednesday, August 8, 2007, 5:30 PM – Thursday, August 9, 2007, 8:00 PM. El Cajon Branch El Cajon CA. For more info visitwww.sdcl.org.

Wilson Reading System - READ/Orange County - Aug 11
Tutor Workshops and Events Learn about the Wilson System. Presenter: READ/Orange County. Ticket Phone: (714)566-3067. Contact: READ/Orange County. Saturday, August 11, 2007, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. READ/OC Headquarters 1501 E St Andrew Pl Santa Ana CA 92705. For more info visitwww.readoc.org.

Tutor Training - READ/San Diego - Aug 14
Tutor Workshops and Events 1st Session: also Aug 18 and 25. 619 . 527 . 5475. Presenter: READ/San Diego. Ticket Phone: (619)527-5475. Contact: READ/San Diego. Tuesday, August 14, 2007, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Linda Vista Branch Library 2160 Ulric St San Diego CA 92111. For more info visitwww.sandiego.gov.
Wilson Reading System - READ/Orange County - Aug 18
Tutor Workshops and Events Learn about the Wilson System. Presenter: READ/Orange County. Ticket Phone: (714)566-3067. Contact: READ/Orange County. Saturday, August 18, 2007, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. READ/OC Headquarters 1501 E St Andrew Pl Santa Ana CA 92705. For more info visitwww.readoc.org.
Tutor Training - Los Angeles Public Library - Aug 18
Tutor Workshops and Events All Volunteers must be Interviewed First ! Contact: 213 . 228 . 7037. Presenter: Los Angeles Public Library. Ticket Phone: (213)228.7037. Contact: Los Angeles Public Library. Saturday, August 18, 2007, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Baldwin Hills Branch 2906 S La Brea Ave LA CA 90016. For more info visitwww.lapl.org.
Tutor Training - San Diego County Library - Aug 18
Tutor Workshops and Events Presenter: LEARN. Ticket Phone: (888)466-0668. Contact: San Diego County Library. Saturday, August 18, 2007, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Vista Branch Vista CA. For more info visit
www.sdcl.org.
Tutor Training - Burbank Public Library - Aug 22
Tutor Workshops and Events Register for the first session of a 15-hour workshop: also Aug 25 and Sep 8. Help an adult improve reading, spelling and writing skills. Learn how to use Discover Intensive Phonics. 818 . 238 . 5577. Presenter: Burbank Public Library. Ticket Phone: (818)238-5577. Contact: Literacy Office. Wednesday, August 22, 2007, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Burbank Public Library Auditorium 110 N Glenoaks Burbank CA 91502. For more info visitwww.burbanklibrary.com.

Tutor Training - Santa Barbara Public Library: Aug 29
Tutor Workshops and Events Also Aug 30: Noon to 4:30 pm. Presenter: Santa Barbara Public Library. Ticket Phone: (805)564-5619. Contact: bschwartzberg@santabarbaraca.gov. Wednesday, August 29, 2007, 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Santa Barbara Public Library Townley Room 40 E Anapamu Santa Barbara CA. For more info visit
www.sbplibrary.org.

BlogAThon - Videos

Burbank Reads!
http://burbanklibrary.blogspot.com

Blogathon 2007 11.28 PM time slot

Blogathon - Videos

Reading Inspires Children

Blogathon 2007 9:06 AM

BlogaThon - Videos

Calgary Library: Story Time

BlogaThon 2007

BlogAThon - Videos

SCTV - Bobby Bittman public service ad.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Finale

Well, a long, long day. Let's just 'bookend' the event with a modified post announcing my first attempt at Blogathon.

Blogathon began yesterday at 6:00 am. Bloggers from around the world blogged for one day to help charities around the globe. We posted every 30 minutes over a 24 hour period; at one the time just became a blur -know there are extra posts, double posts, probably some within minutes of each other.

For this, we collected sponsorships and pledges. They could be a flat donation, or a certain amount for every hour we managed to stay awake.

It's not too late, go to Blogathon, choose ‘Southern California Library Literacy Network,’ and PLEDGE !

Or you can to go the SCLLN ‘Donations Page’ and send a Donation.

And continue to use GoodSearch: 1000 people @ 2 searches a day = $7,300

SCLLN is a network of literacy programs in public libraries from Santa Barbara to San Diego.

In 2006:
8,870 Adult Learners
5,586 Volunteer Tutors
358,604 Hours of Free Tutoring
Families For Literacy program
7,015 children under 5
8,844 children over 5
received 103,709 Free Books

SCLLN thanks you for your support !

BlogAThon - Library

Library Economic Value

Worth Their Weight: An Assessment of the Evolving Field of Library ValuationThe Americans for Libraries Council newest report offers researchers and advocates an overview of the cutting-edge field of library valuation, or models for expressing a library's multiple contributions to its community in dollars and cents. Libraries for the Future

Library Use Value Calculator:

What is your library worth to you?
How much would you pay out-of-pocket for your library services?
Use Kern County Library's calculator to find out.

This worksheet was originally provided by the Massachusetts Library Association, then adapted for the web by Chelmsford Public Library. The Maine State Library added extra accessibility coding and reformatting for ease of reading online; feel free to link the calculator where ever your library is. The Maine State Library site shows how the figures were calculated and how to customize and use on any library web site. The spreadsheet requires either Microsoft Excel or an Excel viewer.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Literacy Blogs

Some interesting literacy blogs to visit:

Adult Learner Blogs

Project Read - San Francisco Public Library
~ a friendly little internet site offering some helpful literacy tips, strategies, and resources

Literacy Blogs

Literacies Cafe - Toronto
~ Chit chat from literacies, a magazine from canada about adult literacy research and practice

Literacy News - Canada
~ Your source for literacy news and literacy development

Newton Free Library
~ Talk Time for Tutors

Literacy Changes
~ Kids, Special Ed., Occupational Therapy, Graphic Organizers, Text-to-Speech

Literacy Matters
~ 21st Century Literacies: The Challenge, The Opportunity, The Tools. What now?

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - News

from PRNewswire: 7.25.07

On Labor Day, preschoolers can step into a world where words truly are the stars of the show. "WordWorld," debuting Sept. 3, 2007, on PBS KIDS(R) (check local listings), is a 3-D animated series funded in part by the U.S. Department of Education, which encourages three- to five-year-old children to become friends with words.

The show makes preparing to read so much fun that kids will laugh out loud as they learn. "WordWorld" playfully brings words to life through a patent-pending methodology that embeds words into the objects they represent.

In each episode, children will explore their world of words. "WordWorld's" humorous storylines focus on age-appropriate social-emotional lessons while introducing preschoolers to key literacy-based skills, such as letter recognition and phonological awareness.

"'WordWorld' is an adventure series that makes words tangible by introducing preschoolers to a world of words that come alive right before their eyes," said Don Moody, founder and CEO of Word World, LLC. "The novelty of the show is that when a word is formed correctly, it morphs into the character or thing it represents, which makes learning to a read a totally new experience.

Our goal is to help preschoolers prepare for reading by telling engaging stories that are fun, sparking their imaginations and fostering a love for words."



A sneak preview.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - SCLLN

SCLLN' s Flickr account is certainly worth a visit.

There are about 100 photos that tell part of the story of literacy in Southern California.

We also have a number of contact with more photos about literacy and libraries.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Covina Public Library

The Second Start Literacy Program is a library-based literacy service with a mission of assisting English-speaking adults who wish to improve basic literacy skills and school-aged children that need additional help to succeed in school.

Trained volunteers and staff strive to create a learning environment that promotes self-esteem and helps learners to participate more effectively and productively in society. Lessons are individualized, confidential, and highly goal oriented. Tutors structure the learning process around the goals of the learner using materials that relate to those goals. The service is provided free of charge and on a one-to-one basis.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - LD

SCLLN links for LD: organziations and Technology

Learning Disabilities

AVKO Dyslexia Research Foundation
International Dyslexia Association
L D Association of California
L D Online
Literacy and Learning Disabilities
National Center for Learning Disabilities

Learning Disabilities: Assistive Technology

Abilility Hub
ABLEDATA
Boston Public Schools Access Technology Center (pdf.file)
Closing the Gap
Dyslexic Adult Links
KATS Network-Vision
KATS Network-Disability
LD and Assistive Technologies
Untangling the Web

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Upland Public Library

Reading for a brighter tomorrow

The Upland Public Library is a site of the West End Literacy League, a joint program between the Rancho Cucamonga and Upland Public Libraries. Since its inception in 1989, the Adult Literacy program has helped over 1,000 English-speaking adults improve their basic reading and writing skills, and the program can help you or someone you know. Adult learners are matched with trained volunteers for free one-to-one tutoring. Instruction is based on the learner's needs and goals.

Adult Literacy Book Club
First Tuesday of the month, 6 p.m.
Starting October 3, 2006
Adult learners discuss books and meet other aspiring readers in their own book club. Each book club member receives a free copy of the book to be discussed. Please check the Library Calendar for specific dates. Grant restrictions limit participation to adult literacy learners and tutors only; please contact the Literacy Office to pre-register, (909) 931-4212.

Ready-Set-Read
As an outreach service, the Upland Literacy Program coordinates the "Books for Babies" project. This is a joint effort to nurture literacy at an early age by providing a Ready-Set-Read kit to new parents who visit the San Antonio Community Hospital's Healthy Beginnings Family Care Center. These bilingual (English/Spanish) kits provide information about the benefits of reading to baby, tips on how to read to baby, a list of appropriate titles, a list of parenting books, information about the four participating libraries, a board book, and a coupon to be redeemed for another board book at any one of the four libraries. The Upland Public Library, in partnership with the Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and San Bernardino County Libraries, provides the "Read-Set-Read" Kits. For additional information about this program, call any of the participating libraries or the Healthy Beginnings Family Care Center at (909) 980-BABY.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAthon - Riverside County Library

Riverside County Public Library



To help English-speaking adults improve their literacy skills so they may fulfill their personal goals and take advantage of opportunities as lifelong learners.


Annual Facts

• 175 Tutors Trained

• 150 Students Matched

• 60 Families Served

• 10,000 Instructional Hours

• 600 Talent and Support Hours

• 4 Full - Time Staff Members

• Population of Area Served - 760,000

• Number of Literacy Sites/Centers - 3

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Imperial County Free Library

Help for Reading or Writing

Help is available for adults 16 years of age and older who would like to improve their English-language reading and writing. It can be help to begin reading, or help in learning how to read better.

The Imperial County Free Library offers free, confidential help in conjunction with Literacy Volunteers of America/Imperial Valley. Interested persons can call LVA/IV at 352-8541 to inquire further.

Also in conjunction with LVA/IV, the County Library system offers Families for Literacy (FFL) programs for adult learners and their children under 5. The FFL story times are held once a month, September through May, at the Calipatria, Heber and Holtville Branches. See our calendar or call staff at those locations for further information on this program.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Banned Books

"And Tango Makes Three" tops ALA's 2006 list of most challenged books: 3.06.07

The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) received a total of 546 challenges last year.

A challenge is defined as a formal, written complaint, filed with a library or school, requesting that materials be removed because of content or appropriateness. Public libraries, schools and school libraries report the majority of challenges to OIF.

"The number of challenges reflects only incidents reported," said Judith F. Krug, director of the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom. "For each reported challenge, four or five likely remain unreported.

"The "10 Most Challenged Books of 2006" reflect a range of themes, and consist of the following titles:

"And Tango Makes Three" by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell

"Gossip Girls" series by Cecily Von Ziegesar

"Alice" series by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

"The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things" by Carolyn Mackler

"The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison

"Scary Stories" series by Alvin Schwartz

"Athletic Shorts" by Chris Crutcher

"The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky

"Beloved" by Toni Morrison

"The Chocolate War" by Robert Cormier

Off the list this year, but on for several years past, are the "Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger, "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain.

@Your Local Library - CalCat or WorldCat

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Burbank Public Library

Check their Blog
http://burbanklibrary.blogspot.com

BlogAThon - Palmdale City Library

Palmdale Library Literacy Program

Did you know that one out of five American adults cannot read well enough to fill out a job application, understand the instructions on a prescription bottle, or read a bedtime story to their child? That means in the City of Palmdale, there could easily be over 17,500 adults who have problems reading and writing English.

In 1991, Congress defined literacy as "an individual's ability to read, write, and speak in English," but added to this traditional definition the abilities to compute and solve problems in order for an individual to "function on the job and in society, to achieve one's goals, and develop one's knowledge and potential." The new focus, in other words, is on functional literacy.

The Palmdale City Library's Literacy Program is designed for English-speaking adults who want to improve their reading and writing skills. The Literacy Coordinator provides regularly scheduled training sessions for volunteer tutors. Once trained, each tutor then works one-on-one with an assigned learner.

Someone you know could have difficulty reading or writing and you might never be aware of the problem. Functionally illiterate adults mask their deficiencies well. They listen to and observe the world very carefully. They memorize. They ask their trusted family members and friends to read and write for them. It is embarrassing for them to admit that they cannot read or write "like everybody else." However, given encouragement and guidance in a safe and comfortable setting, most of them can and will improve their literacy skills. The Palmdale Library Literacy Program provides that environment and level of support.

The Literacy offices are located in the Chimbole Cultural Center. If you, or someone you know, is interested in learning more about this worthwhile project, please call 267-5600.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Wiki

The Adult Literacy Education (ALE) Wiki! *

Learn about adult literacy education here, including English language learning, numeracy, and adult basic and secondary education. Add knowledge from your experience teaching adult learners, from research or professional wisdom, or from your experience as an adult learner.

The ALE Wiki is a community of practice with links to research for practitioners, researchers, learners and others. Although some people add to the discussion here, unlike an electronic list where dialogue may be frequent and lively, for the most part discussion archived here has taken place on electronic lists elsewhere.

Basic Literacy Topics - one of many Topics

Contributory Causes of Adults' Low Literacy:

~ What are the various reasons that adults in the United States have low literacy skills?


Teaching Reading to Adults:

~ What are the best strategies for teaching reading to adults?

Adult New Readers Who Plateau at the Second or Third Grade Level

Optimum Size for Basic Literacy Classes

Basic Literacy Assessment

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - MySpace

Check out SCLLN on MySpace !

Millions of adults in this country are unable to read at functional level. The Southern California Library Literacy Network (SCLLN) is a coalition of libraries who provide free tutoring services to these adults.

Do you have three hours to donate to a low literate adult ?

Or maybe you would like to support the mission by offering a small contribution.

Please visit http://www.sclln.org/.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - READ/San Diego

READ/San Diego

In San Diego County, approximately 422,000 adults cannot read and write well enough to meet everyday needs and pursue professional goals.

The Library's READ/San Diego program is a free literacy, English as a Second Language and family literacy instruction service for adults 18 years and older.

Staffed by literacy professionals, READ/San Diego coordinates the efforts of volunteer reading tutors and cooperates with local adult schools, community colleges and other literacy education providers in making and receiving student referrals.

Each year, the program assists more than 1,000 adult students from various backgrounds and learning levels.

Adult Literacy Program Phone: 619-527-5475
Serving the City FAX: 619-527-5485
of San Diego Email: readstaff@sandiego.gov

Workshop Schedule

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Books

from Blogger News Network - Simon Barrett

I am involved with adult literacy and was delighted to read Desert Claw, there are so few books available that can be utilized in improving adult literacy. I know that often children’s books are used in literacy programs and this creates a stigma for the adult learner.

Damien Lewis does in 125 pages of oversize type what authors such as Tom Clancy would take 800 pages to achieve. Damien leaves out the long and usually pointless scene settings, and endless pages of boring minutia. He just gets right into the tale.

In this case the story involves 4 ex UK Special Forces members who are invited to take part in a ‘black operation’. Their mission is to go into war torn Iraq and liberate a Van Gough painting that was looted from one of Saddam’s palaces.

Right from the start our hero’s smell a rat, there are many aspects of this operation that are bothering them, but the money that they are offered becomes an overriding factor. It may not be quite enough to retire on, but certainly enough to have a great deal of fun with.

I wish more famous authors like Damien Lewis would take some time off from the regular writing regimen and produce a ‘Quick Read’.

Quick Reads is a major initiative from British publishers, booksellers and writers, launched in 2006. Twelve of the biggest names in fiction and non-fiction will publish short, fast-paced new books designed to encourage reluctant readers to get hooked on books.

Also available in Large Print and Audio.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - San Bernardino Public Library

Since 1986, CARTOONISTS ACROSS AMERICA founder Phil Yeh has criss-crossed the globe using artwork and humor to promote literacy, the environment, creativity and other positive issues.

He and the internationally known group kicked off California's statewide literacy promotion in Sacramento: 'Literacy: It's A Whole New World." They led a group of adults and kids in painting a literacy mural on a Yolo County Library bookmobile.

Last year, he drew a crowd at San Bernardino's Norman F. Feldheym Central Library.

Yeh is creator of the befuddled Patrick Rabbit and a menagerie of witty dinosaurs and other wise and wonderful critters.

He is a passionate children's literacy advocate.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Newport Beach Public Library

The Need

"There is no literacy problem in Newport Beach!" This is a common response from the community. In fact, there is a great need for Newport Beach Public Library Literacy Services.

The 2003 National Assessment of Adult Literacy states that there are 93 million adults in the United States that demonstrate, at best, only basic literacy skills. This is almost 1/2 of the adult population of the U.S.

Approximately 10.5 million of these adults are in California; 350,000 of them reside in Orange County and over 7,000 are our friends and neighbors in Newport Beach. Many of these adults are immigrants that are hoping to become an active part of our community. Some are people who have slipped through the cracks of our system and are tired of just "getting by." Whatever the reasons, they are 7,000 people that need help.

The effects of adults who struggle with literacy impact each and every one of us. Did you know that adults with low literacy skills ....

Are less likely to vote and integrate into our system
Are suffering from more health problems and lose more time from work
Are not able to advocate for themselves or their children
Are more likely to spend time in jail or prison
Are more than twice as likely to receive public assistance
Are not able to help their children succeed in school, thus perpetuating the problem of illiteracy

contact literacy services: (949) 717-3874

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Statistics

Literacy skills show decline with age:
Reading for pleasure helps fight drop
Edmonton Journal: July 7, 2007 by Shannon Proudfoot,CanWest News Service

Most Canadians, but especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, experience "significant" literacy loss as adults, a Statistics Canada report shows.

The decline in skills begins at age 25, peaks around 40 and then tapers off around 55 years old. For example, adults aged 40 scored an average of 288 on a standardized literacy test in 1994, but in a second survey nine years later, that had dropped to 275 -- a loss of reading ability equal to half a year of schooling.

Over their lifetime, the average Canadian will lose about one grade's worth of literacy skills, the report estimates."Literacy is not a static commodity that is acquired in youth and maintained throughout life," it concludes.More education mitigates the decline, with university graduates scoring about 30 points higher than high school grads.


People who didn't complete secondary school scored nearly 50 points lower than those who did, while employed Canadians scored 12 points higher than those not in the labour force.


The reading people do at work helps, but not nearly as much as reading a variety of materials for pleasure at home.


The data came from a series of international literacy surveys conducted in 1994 and 2003, with StatsCan gathering the Canadian component. This report focused on native-born Canadians, though other surveys show immigrants have significantly more literacy difficulties. More

For Overview & Highlights:

ABC Canada
ALL Literacy Survey

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - SCLLN

SCLLN is finally on the Google Literacy Project map.

We are the ‘red marker’ just below the ' A ' in CA.The Literacy Project, launched in 2006 at the Frankfurt Book Fair, is a resource for teachers, literacy organizations and anyone interested in reading and education.

It was created in collaboration with LitCam, Google, and UNESCO's Institute for Lifelong Learning.

Remember to use GoodSearch !

Use GoodSearch and every time you click, SCLLN gets a donation.

Click on the Icon just below the ClusterMaps.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - READ/Orange County

READ/Orange County provides:

• Tutoring in reading and writing

• Tutor training

• On-going tutor support

• Mutually convenient times and locations

• Small group or one-to-one setting

• Confidential, individualized, goal-oriented lessons

• Families for Literacy

• Working for Inmate Literacy Now (WIN)

• English Literacy Civics Education

• Referral information

Check their Calendar for upcoming Workshops.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - San Luis Obispo Library

San Luis Obispo Literacy Council works directly with the San Luis Obispo Public Library.

They have a fundraiser going on right now; you still have time !

Fundraiser at Barnes & Noble!

Click on this voucher, print it out and present it when you make a purchase at the downtown SLO location of Barnes & Noble on July 28, 2007. A percentage of the proceeds will go to the Literacy Council plus you can preview Chocolate Suite artwork while you’re there.

Chocolate Suite: August 25, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Wine, Music, Appetizers and of course lots and lots of Chocolate!
Why: A fundraiser for literacy
Where: Talley Vineyards, Arroyo Grande
Tickets: $50.00 per person

Tutor Workshops

4 August:
Tutor Training August 4 & August 11 (9:00 am)
11 August:
Tutor Training August 4 & August 11 (9:00 am)
25 August:
A Chocolate Suite (5:30 pm)
8 September:
Tutor Training September 8 & 15 (9:00 am)
13 October:
Tutor Training October 13 & 20 (9:00 am)

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Learners

Voices for Adult Literacy United for Education

VALUE’s mission is to strengthen adult literacy efforts in the United States through learner involvement and leadership.

Adult learners will be involved as primary stakeholders and full partners in every aspect of literacy program operations throughout the country.

VALUE just held their annual Conference, Juy 5-7 in Hartford, CT.

"Literacy + Leadership = Independence"

Come meet and network with adult learner leaders and supporters from around the country; take part in leadership training work-
shops; and discuss what is going on in adult literacy nationally.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Videos

an SCTV classic

BlogAThon - California

from the CLA weblog:

II. AB 1030-CABALLERO: LITERACY PROGRAMS FOR AT-RISK YOUTH

AB 1030 by Assemblywoman Caballero, the former Mayor of Salinas, is part of a multiple bill package that she has titled her "Gang Prevention Kit" in order to assist at-risk youth.

Specifically, AB 1030 would expand the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Services Program to services targeted to young adults, 16 years of age and over, who are not enrolled in school.

The program would allow these youths to receive adult basic literacy tutoring and related services. Recent research by the State Library indicates that only 618 youths, ages 16-19 were served by this program in 2005-06.

CLA is in support of the measure, which recently had a hearing in the Senate Education Committee.

The measure will be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee on Monday, July 16. If you have an interest in AB 1030-Caballero, please contact the Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee via phone to indicate your support.

Senator Tom Torlakson, Chair (916) 651-4007
Senator Dave Cox, Vice Chair (916) 651-4001

-heard it is now on its way for funding: still needs support

call your State Senator or Assemblyman or Assemblywoman

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Carlsbad

ADULTS CAN LEARN TO READ, WRITE, AND SPELL BETTER!

The Adult Learning Program is the adult literacy service of Carlsbad City Library. The program serves English-speaking adults who want to improve their basic reading and writing skills.

At the Adult Learning Program we've helped hundreds of adults to become more confident and independent.

Adult learners:
Develop basic reading skills
Improve spelling and writing
Gain general knowledge
Apply literacy skills in daily life.

In September 1998, Carlsbad Library's Adult Learning Program began a cooperative literacy effort with Carlsbad High School. Special education students come daily during regular school hours to the Adult Learning Program site. Ninth through twelfth graders are tutored one-to-one in basic reading and writing skills by their special education teacher and aide and by the staff and volunteers of the Adult Learning Program. Enrollment is done through the high school and students receive high school credit.

Check out their current Newsletter - for information about the Henry Huffman Institute.

"Before I was in this program, it was like I was in a cave. Now I have the whole world opened up to me." Adult Learning Program Learner

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Books

You've GOT to Read This Book! 55 People Tell the Story of the Book That Changed Their Life by Jack Canfield, Gay Hendricks.


"To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable spelled out is a spark." These words of Victor Hugo continue to cast light nearly two centuries after they were written. In You've Got to Read This Book!, Chicken Soup impresarios, Canfield and Hendricks, share personal stories about the power of reading. The contributors include Malachy McCourt, Dave Barry, Stephen Covey, Kenny Loggins, Mark Victor Hansen, Lou Holtz, and John Gray.


Why don't you write books people can read ?
Nora Joyce to husband James.

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - California

California public libraries began offering free adult literacy in 1984. Credit goes to Gary Strong, State Librarian, and his staff at the State Library. It was originally called the California Library Campaign. Families For Literacy was added in the 90's and it is now called California Library Literacy Services.

We celebrated our 20th Anniversary in 2004. A part of the Celebration was a 'California Literacy' timeline (in pdf).

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Humor

Flickr Photos

Illiterate by W1z of oz's

Houston by The Rocketeer

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - SCLLN

Afternoon Reminder:
Here to raise money and encourage people to volunteer.
Please visit the Blog A Thon and click on the Southern California Library Literacy Network.

Public libraries in Southern California provide FREE literacy services to English-speaking adults who want to improve basic reading and writing skills. As a volunteer, you have the rare opportunity to share the excitement and joy of helping someone read for the first time and to create a learning environment that promotes self-esteem and helps adult learners participate more fully in their community.

You can help an adult:

Develop basic reading skills
Improve spelling and writing
Gain general knowledge
Apply literacy skills to daily life
Become more confident and independent

Successful volunteer tutors:

Read and write comfortably in English
At least 18 years old
Previous teaching or tutoring experience is not required
Have patience and empathy
Have good listening skills
Flexible and nonjudgmental

Able to learn and use a variety of teaching methods

Typical commitment of a volunteer tutor:

2 tutoring sessions per week
Each session is 1 1/2 hours
Minimum 6 months of tutoring
A combination of Orientations, Tutor Workshops, and In-Service workshops
One-to-one tutoring and/or Small Groups

Blogathon 2007

BlogAThon - Books

Still looking for some Summer Reading ?

Some ideas:

NPR's list of recommended reading for Summer 2007.

Every summer, UC Berkeley sends new freshmen a list of books suggested by faculty and staff. 2007 Theme: Survival. Also has past years’ lists.

Who Reads What - 2007: Authors and celebrities; by year and name.

Celebrities Caught Reading

~ Celebrity Book Club
~ Celebrity Summer Reading
~ Read-Like-A-Celebrity

Blogathon 2007