In 1983 the California State Library funded the first statewide adult literacy program with $2.5 million. Forty years later, the values that were established in 1983 still ring true at California Library Literacy Services (CLLS), the statewide agency that provides funding for the Redlands Adult Literacy and Family Literacy Programs. This article highlights some of the core CLLS objectives, which have shaped the successful Redlands Adult and Family Literacy Programs.
A library welcomes everyone: Many of us cannot recall not having free and easy access to library services, but some long-term residents of Redlands never came to Smiley Library because they couldn’t read. In contrast, other adults, who are new to Redlands, eagerly come to Smiley Library because they know they will be welcomed and receive free services to improve their reading and writing. The Redlands Adult Literacy Program is a bridge that provides vital literacy services so that everyone can fully access library and community services.
Adult literacy programs rely on partnerships: CLLS funding for local literacy programs is contingent on local financial support. The Redlands Adult Literacy Program is grateful for the support provided by the city of Redlands, Smiley Library Trustees, the Friends of the Library, and local donors. These partnerships are based on a local and statewide recognition of the importance of adult literacy, which enables adults to get better jobs, advance their own and their children’s education, and leads to the promotion of better health and civic participation.
Adult learners are leaders in their own education and the Redlands Adult Literacy Program: Every year an adult learner speaks to the City Council to express their appreciation for the Council’s support of the Redlands Adult Literacy Program. The representative learner shares that year’s anthology entitled “Our Stories: A Collection of Writing.” Through these anthologies, the Redlands community learns about the lives and aspirations of community members who often feel invisible to the larger community. It takes courage, commitment, and drive to work to improve one’s reading and writing as an adult. Adult learners are the true ambassadors to anyone in Redlands who wants to make his/her life better.
The Redlands Adult Literacy Program was reinitiated in 2010 by the Friends of A. K. Smiley Public Library. In 2015, with funding provided by the city, the adult literacy program became a key component of library services. Through the dedicated service of its many volunteers and the leadership of literacy staff, over 450 lives have been changed. Adults have been able to keep or advance in their jobs because of their new-found literacy skills. Adults have opened businesses in the Redlands community. Adults have worked to gain skills so they can read to their children and help them with their homework. A welcoming library, strong partnerships, and respect for adults seeking to improve their lives profoundly changes the city of Redlands.
If you would like to learn more, we invite you to attend the next adult literacy volunteer tutor orientation scheduled for Saturday, June 22. Please reserve your space by contacting Diane Shimota, Adult Literacy Coordinator, at A. K. Smiley Public Library at 909.798.7565, ext. 4110, or by emailing literacy@akspl.org. Learn about how you might change an adult’s life through literacy and if you know someone who needs help with their literacy, please help them to contact Diane. All inquiries are confidential and services are free.