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Library's Adult Literacy Program Needs Volunteers

by KREX News Room
by Taylor Kanost

Story Created: Feb 13, 2013 at 4:33 PM MDT

Story Updated: Feb 13, 2013 at 6:25 PM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo - Mesa County Libraries are seeking volunteer tutors to help adults learn English, improve their English skills, and prepare for U.S. citizenship.

According to Karen Kllanxhja, Head of Literacy Services for Mesa County Libraries, over 100 Mesa County residents are currently on the Adult Literacy Program's waiting list.

The Adult Literacy Program has provided these services to Mesa County residents since 1987, all for free.

Literacy Program Coordinator, Wendy Kirby, says demand for these services has increased just over the past month.

"Within the last month, we've picked up 30 more students that would like individual help or group classes from the Literacy Center," said Kirby. "As we see more immigration reform coming up, we're going to be getting more and more."

Individuals from 37 different countries have used these services, providing both students and tutors the opportunity to learn about new cultures.

"The students get so much out of it because they are learning how to speak English and how to communicate, but the tutors also get a great deal out of it," said Kirby. "They get to share their culture and learn their student's culture, so it's really a two-way street."

Eusebia Garza, a previous student of the program, enjoyed it so much that she decided to become a tutor herself.

"I'm living my dream. I work for the community, and I tell [the students], "If I can learn, you guys can learn, too.""

Mesa County Central Library will host two tutor information sessions on March 7th, from 1-2 P.M. and from 6-7 P.M.

Those interested in tutoring can find an application online or obtain one at the Central Library.

For information regarding the Adult Literacy Program, visit http://mesacountylibraries.org/services/adult-literacy/.

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