In 2019, the California Library Literacy Services allocated funding for Family Literacy Programs at public libraries offering adult literacy services. Diane Shimota, Adult Literacy Coordinator at A.K. Smiley Public Library, eagerly initiated a Family Literacy Program because she knew that many adult learners wanted to improve their own reading and writing so that they could help their children become stronger readers. To participate in the Redlands Family Literacy Program, adults must be enrolled in the Redlands Adult Literacy Program. Renee Kennedy, who leads the Family Literacy Program, described its primary goal as: “Parents and grandparents improve their reading and writing so they can help children in the home develop a love of reading, which helps them become successful students. The whole family can celebrate the joy of learning together!”
At Family Literacy meetings, children are separated into two age groups, those who are school-age and those who are toddlers or preschoolers. Joan Prehoda, a co-lead in the Family Literacy Program, and Renee Kennedy select a story to read with these groups and then lead them in an age-appropriate activity that builds on that story. While their children are busy learning, parents are taught important ways to encourage their children to read with greater comprehension. In this group setting, parents have the opportunity to support each other as they improve their own reading. Currently, Family Literacy meetings are offered once a month at Smiley Library and weekly at Lugonia Elementary School, following onsite adult literacy instruction.
Sotheavy Peterson participates in the Adult Literacy and Family Literacy Programs. Sotheavy has three sons in school, and while the family is very busy with extracurricular activities, she has made literacy a top priority for herself and her children. Sotheavy shared: “I used to think public libraries were places containing books and other materials…now I know they are so much more. They are amazing places for trust and hope. They gave my family and me peace and happiness.”
At the end of each Family Literacy meeting, children receive free books that they can use to build home libraries. Sotheavy displays books all over the house to encourage her sons to read and often finds all three boys reading a book. “I know my family is blessed to have an amazing public library and to be a part of its wonderful programs. I hope we never take public libraries for granted. They are way beyond places to borrow books or to keep us warm in winter and cold in summer. They change lives and make the world a better place.”
In addition to meeting with her tutor and participating in Family Literacy activities, Sotheavy attends Adult Literacy computer classes, writing classes, writing workshops, and book club meetings. These activities have given her the confidence to do new things in the community. For example, Sotheavy volunteers at her children’s school and as an administrator for a school at her church where she takes on many administrative and leadership responsibilities.
Literacy can change the lives of an individual, a family, and a community. The Redlands Adult Literacy and the Family Literacy Programs are FREE, and all materials are provided. If you would like to volunteer or learn more about any of the Adult Literacy activities offered at A.K. Smiley Public Library, please contact Diane Shimota, at (909) 798-7565 or email: literacy@akspl.org. All inquiries are treated confidentially.