San Juan Library Celebrates International Literacy Day

Imagine getting your kids off to school, having a minimum wage job because you immigrated and your English language skills need work, trying to learn English to improve your economic prospects, and trying to find child care for your family in the evening while you go to school. Talk about juggling a load! This year, on International Literacy Day, the San Juan Island Library and the San Juan Center of Skagit Valley College announce their partnership in providing a family literacy program for English language learners.

“Help is on the way for families whose first language is not English,” said Beth Helstien, Outreach Coordinator for the San Juan Island Library. The Library will be hosting the college’s English as a Second Language (ESL) classes in the Library building for the first time this fall. Parents will study English, and the Library will provide child care including programs, activities, stories and snacks for the children of English learners. Classes are on Monday and Wednesday evenings starting on September 20.

Registration for ESL is through Skagit Valley College (telephone 378-3220) or at the Library. Child care will be provided free of charge. Classes are offered free to low-income students; tuition is $25 for those who are able to pay.

The Library is working to develop activities to help children improve their English skills by playing games, using computers, and working one on one with volunteers who can help with homework. Teenagers will be on hand to work with the children of English learners, both peers and younger children. Teens participating in the program will receive training in child development and early childhood education, background in library services, and get a terrific experience knowing they are making a difference in their neighbors’ lives.

The Library has been working to expand its collection of books, videos and audio materials available in Spanish for this growing segment of the community. There are Spanish language materials available for all age ranges, and the Library can borrow specific items from other libraries upon request.

On September 8 the Library also kicks off the new season of its popular Reading Buddies Program. Reading Buddies matches adult volunteers with elementary-aged children. The pairs spend half an hour per week together sharing the love of reading and improving students’ skills. The orientation for new Reading Buddies volunteers is at 5:00pm on Wednesday evening with the Youth Services Librarian Laura Tretter and the elementary school principal Jody Metzger-Bell. Cookies will be served. Come find out more information. Pairs begin reading together at the end of the month.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.