5 Ways to Improve Adult Literacy

Educate Yourself

Start by researching some of the online resources available to you and then share them on social media or anywhere else you think they will help. Some are comprehensive directories that can guide you in finding help in your own community.

Three good options include:

• The Office of Vocational and Adult Education at the U.S. Department of Education
• The National Institute for Literacy
• ProLiteracy

Volunteer at Your Local Literacy Council

Even some of the smallest communities are served by a county literacy council. Get out the phone book or check at your local library. Your local literacy council is there to help adults learn to read, do math, or learn a new language, anything literacy and numeracy related. They can also help children keep up with reading in school. Staff members are trained and reliable. Participate by becoming a volunteer or by explaining the services to someone you know who might benefit from them.

Find Your Local Adult Education Classes for Someone Who Needs Them

Your literacy council will have information about adult education classes in your area. If they don't, or you don't have a literacy council, search online or ask at your library. If your own county doesn't offer adult education classes, which would be surprising, check the next closest county, or contact your state education department. Every state has one.

Ask for Reading Primers at Your Local Library

Never underestimate the power of your local county library to help you accomplish just about anything. They love books. They adore reading. They will do their best to spread the joy of picking up a book. They also know that people cannot be productive employees if they don't know how to read. They've got resources available and can recommend special books to help you help a friend learn to read. Books on beginning readers are sometimes called primers (pronounced primmer). Some are designed especially for adults to avoid the embarrassment of having to learn by reading children's books. Learn about all of the resources available to you. The library is an excellent place to start.

Hire a Private Tutor

It can be very embarrassing for an adult to admit that he or she cannot read or work simple calculations. If the thought of attending adult education classes freaks someone out, private tutors are always available. Your literacy council or library are probably your best places to find a trained tutor who will respect the student's privacy and anonymity. What a wonderful gift to give someone who won't otherwise seek help.