Leamos @ Your Library: Teaching Spanish Literacy
Prince George's County Memorial Library System, Md.
Innovation Synopsis
How can someone who does not know how to read and write in their native language learn a second language such as English? Leamos @ Your Library is a new program to Prince George's County Memorial Library System that teaches illiterate Spanish speakers to read and write in Spanish.
Challenge/Opportunity
As of May 23, 2018, in Prince George's County, 33 percent of public school students are Latino. One issue that affects this community is low literacy levels among adult English Language Learners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in the Washington, D.C. area, 28 percent of mothers who are English Language Learners have an education that ranges from nursery school through eighth grade. PGCMLS is committed to helping the most vulnerable be literate.
Key Elements of Innovation
Leamos @ Your Library is a pilot program that utilizes an online platform for Spanish literacy, offered through ProLiteracy, in partnership with the Judy Hoyer Center (wrap-around services for low-income families and children with disabilities). The curriculum consists of 43 lessons and our librarians act as instructors and tutors. Students are comfortable with the location. The July Hoyer Center provides the computer lab and helps with the recruitment of students. The service is offered free.
Achieved Outcomes
Once these adult learners complete the program, the acquisition of the English language will be easier because they will transfer their reading skills to their second language. These adults will not only break the cycle of illiteracy in their homes but will also foster households where reading is a proud part of their lives. The bigger picture is that they will have a brighter future for themselves and their families and contribute to our communities.