Adult literacy options increasing with the launch of the Community Learning Place
By Mona Mattei
The newest in a wide spectrum of programs helping people of all ages in our communities with literacy is starting next week. The launch of the Community Learning Place at the Grand Forks Public Library is the latest in a number of local adult literacy options. Adult Programs Co-ordinator, Sheila Dobie, says the sessions are an open drop-in for anyone who is interested in receiving assistance with literacy questions. “It’s a new program that we’re attaching to our array of adult programs in the community,” said Dobie. “The partnership with the library is a real distinct relationship that we’ve developed. We can help people with reading, basic computer, math, upgrading, citizenship test preparation – anything adults might be faced with in terms of a learning experience or that they feel they may need help with.” Sponsored by the Columbia Alliance for Literacy (CBAL), the new adult program is just one of the four adult options they offer in the Boundary region. The three-hour open-door session is developed in partnership with the Grand Forks Public Library, and is free to anyone interested. Dobie will be available during the sessions to talk with people one-on-one and help them access literacy services or just chat. There are also opportunities to receive help on the library computers. Dobie says that although many adults are able to work and participate in their communities, many are struggling with literacy challenges. According to Literacy BC statistics, one million people in B.C. face these challenges and struggle with success in their day-to-day lives. While it is sometimes hard to admit the need for help, Dobie hopes this informal drop-in option will be one more way for people to connect. “It’s always a challenge with adult literacy to contact the people who really need it,” says Dobie. “So we’re trying to find as many creative ways that we can to in fact contact those people.”
The Community Learning Place is holding an open house on Tuesday, Nov. 30 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. and will continue weekly at the same time.
Other options for adults through the CBAL programs include: one-on-one tutoring, a seniors computer course (requires sign-up), English as a second language courses, and the Sunshine Valley Community Literacy Program.
For more information contact Sheila Dobie or Lizanne Eastwood, CBAL community literacy co-ordinator, 250-442-2533.
