From the New York Times: How Black Librarians Helped Create Generations of Black Literature

Scholars are uncovering how critical Black women librarians were in building public Black book collections and communities of readers.

Meet with a Social Worker at the Library

Did you know several library branches offer appointments with social workers who connect patrons with county and state resources? Help is available for financial assistance, immigration services, substance abuse counseling, and more. Regular social worker visits happen at the Brooklyn Park, Busch Annapolis, Deale, Edgewater, and Glen Burnie branches. Learn more, including how to make appointments, on AACPL’s website.

Causes of Low Adult Literacy in the US

More than 43 million adults in the US struggle with low literacy. This article from ProLiteracy outlines the factors that have led to low adult literacy rates and makes public policy recommendations that would address this challenge.

From the introduction: “Why does the United States, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, with free public education in every state and school district, have so many adults with low literacy? Why does this matter, and what can we do about it?”

Documentary Film: The Truth About Reading

Literacy Council staff recently watched a documentary on literacy in America. The Truth About Reading is relatable, and we recommend checking it out. The film features the stories of several adults dealing with illiteracy and “sub-literacy,” as well as children who are struggling to learn to read. Experts interviewed in The Truth About Reading offer their advice on how to tackle this problem. The film is available for rent on multiple streaming services. Watch the preview and learn more.

This article, provided by Edutopia, offers four accessible strategies to motivate students to engage with texts and improve their literacy skills, especially if they are reading below grade level when they get to the secondary grades.

To make math word problems less confusing, especially for English language learners, change the language, not the math. Visit Edutopia’s website to read this helpful article.

Annual Membership Meeting

The Literacy Council held its annual membership meeting in Eastport on May 15. We discussed our activities and accomplishments for the year and looked ahead to FY25. Thanks to all who attended.

Who & how are we helping?

As of April 30, we know that AACLC tutors worked with 162 students so far this fiscal year, which closes on May 31. We assessed 91+ new or returning students throughout the year. These totals do not include the students we evaluate and tutor at county correctional/detention centers.

In a few weeks, when we add up all the Literacy Council volunteer hours donated in 2024, we’ll likely surpass 14,000. Translated to a simple monetary value, these hours contributed more than $475,000 to Anne Arundel County communities where assistance is needed most.

Student Achievements Through April

Six AACLC students earned high school diplomas this fiscal year!

Fourteen students got a job or a better job, 6 entered other educational programs or training, 16 completed a book in their curriculum, and 32 improved their English language skills. Three students passed the U.S. citizenship test, and one passed the ASVAB for entrance into the military. One student got his Commercial Driver’s License (see below), and another became a licensed practical nurse.

The impact of our work reaches beyond our students and extends to their children, families, workplaces, and communities.

Tutors, assessors, and volunteers — thank you for all you are doing to improve lives in Anne Arundel County!

Here’s a snapshot of our student demographics for FY24: