Public library: Literacy, life skills, equivalency programs enrolling now

Adult learners who seek tutoring in reading, writing, math, computer and life skills need look no further than the Socorro Public Library, where the literacy and life skills programs are getting stronger than ever.

According to director Chelsea Jones, the library will soon be a GED test site through Pearson so learners can both prepare and test for the high school equivalency credential. If passed, the GED provides learners with a much-needed requirement for college admission, a job or for joining the military.

Chelsea Jones, director of Socorro Public Library.
File Photo | El Defensor Chieftain

But Jones is thrilled about the newest addition to the literacy offerings – the National External Diploma Program. On this New Mexico Department of Education-sanctioned program’s website (www.nedp.org), it states that “adults can demonstrate high school-level skills through completing a portfolio of life skill and academic tasks, anywhere they have access to the internet.”

For example, said Jones, “if a student can show how to write a check or pay a bill, that’s math.” All along the way, the library has literacy volunteers to support and guide the learner’s progress.

The NEDP is organized in modules and can usually be completed in six to eight months, working one to two hours a week. If there are modules where the student has less experience, the tutor can assist.

The library has received $11,265 for this program for three years from New Mexico Department of Education.

Don’t need a credential? No problem. The literacy volunteers are still eager to help.

One 50-something woman approached Jones and said simply, “I want to learn how to read my mail.” She is now working with a tutor to learn how to read. Another well-educated woman, in Socorro because of her husband’s job, knew very little English. She desperately wanted help so she could talk to her child’s teachers, make friends, etc. An ESL volunteer is now helping.

Jones said, “I have great volunteers… they are usually older, well-educated, retired,” and have a desire to give back. Jones will accept volunteers of any age who can help someone achieve their goals. There is a lot of latitude so volunteers can play to their strengths. For example, some tutors have more of a passion for math than they might with other subjects. Some might prefer to work only on reading. No one is pressed into a role they don’t want.

These programs at Socorro Public Library can also fill needs of area teens. A group who appeared before the City Council on July 18, voiced concerns about the lack of resources in the city and county. Both Mayor Bhasker and Jones invited teens to find out more about what the library has to offer

For more information about the life skills and other programs, or for volunteering, call the library at 575-835-1114, or attend one of the monthly meetings for volunteers. The next one is Aug. 15 at 9 a.m. at the library.