Oct. 18, 2009 — The Oklahoma Department of Libraries announced that a $10,000 grant was awarded to the Rogers County Literacy Council to support local adult literacy efforts. The check was officially presented to the program by Sen. Sean Burrage, who commended the literacy program for its efforts in providing basic literacy instruction to local citizens.
Twelve percent of Oklahomans over the age of 16 read at below basic level, with another 31 percent of adults having only the most basic reading skills, according to the 2003 Oklahoma State Assessment of Adult Literacy, . Individuals at these levels often face significant obstacles when trying to succeed in the workplace, community, and everyday life.
The Rogers County Literacy Council is a volunteer based program that provides free literacy instruction to adults who want to improve their reading and writing skills. Learners work one-to-one with a trained tutor using a variety of teaching methods and materials. Funds will be used to support adult literacy in Rogers County.
“Even though this is a volunteer program, these funds are vital to our ability to offer quality literacy services to this community,” said Mike Gardner, Rogers County Literacy Council president.
Grant funds were awarded by the Literacy Resource Office, a division of the Office of Library Development. State funding appropriated by the Oklahoma Legislature, not only provides literacy grants to programs throughout the state, but provides ongoing technical assistance, training, and resources to support local adult literacy efforts.
For more information about the local literacy program, or to find out how to volunteer, contact the literacy office at 277-4331.
Hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
For information on statewide literacy efforts visit www.odl.state.ok.us/literacy.
