Learn Grow Thrive - Glendale Library Arts and Culture Supports the Critical Impact of Adult Literacy

Adult literacy

San Fernando Valley

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

According to the U.S. 2023 results from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAACC), 59 million adults have literacy skills at or below the lowest level. Los Angeles County is below average in literacy in comparison to California, with 34% at the lowest literacy level. Literacy matters as it is the heart of basic education for all. Low literacy levels are associated with higher poverty rates, lower earnings, increased health care costs, and lower educational outcomes for children of low literate adults. Increasing literacy levels improves a person's economic, social and educational outcomes. Glendale Library, Arts & Culture’s literacy services are currently in demand and respond to the needs of a diverse community comprised of 34.51% Armenian, 13.34% Asian, 9.10% other, 7.86% multiracial, and 18.47% Latiné residents. Glendale's overall median income lags behind other local cities, including Los Angeles County.

GLAC literacy programs support our community through group literacy classes and one-on-one tutoring. We enable students to engage fully in society without language barriers through learning opportunities and by providing a bridge between those who want to give back and serve our community as volunteer tutors. We target our programs by promoting materials in learners' preferred language, ensuring that they feel seen and providing a sense of belonging in the library. Our services inform and inspire through quality learning programs, empowering students in their personal development. We provide learning spaces that are safe and at various library branches throughout the year, to provide as many options as possible.
In addition to literacy classes, we provide nature literacy kits, basic computer classes, technology help, conversation classes, and a technology loan program. Community members have requested more computer classes and technology help. We currently have a waitlist for students waiting to be matched with a one-on-one tutor, to join the next computer basics class, and to fill the next available spot in one of our six literacy classes. The needs continue to rise and GLAC would love to rise up and support the needs of our community.

In the long-term, Los Angeles County will have improved economic growth, a decrease in unemployment, lower healthcare costs due to increased preventative care and nutrition, increase in youth literacy levels due to parents' abilities to support their children's literacy, decrease in work accidents, and a higher percentage of civic engagement. Adult literacy goes beyond solely education but affects all aspects of one's life and well-being. Literacy provides individuals the ability to problem solve and navigate life's challenges, improve health literacy by communicating more effectively with one's physician and understanding medication, and improve job prospects. In the short-term, Los Angeles County residents will have a place where they can learn and grow free of charge and free from judgment. Residents will find opportunities to develop skills and improve their quality of life, finding satisfaction and hope living in this community.