Adult Literacy Services

To meet the needs of a diverse community of learners, the Colusa County Free Library’s Literacy Program offers a wide variety of learning opportunities. Patrons and literacy students are encouraged to learn how to access a range of library materials in different formats, languages and reading levels to increase their literacy skills. Patrons can use public computer stations, access free WiFi, and explore a multitude of e-resources at each branch location. Any adult can ask for help building skills in reading/writing English, digital literacy, math literacy, and basic financial literacy. Most assistance is provided one-on-one, but small group workshops are also available. Complete an application at any library, or contact Literacy Coordinator Pam DaGrossa (530-458-0373, pdagrossa@countyofcolusa.com) to request literacy help.

One-on-One Tutoring

Adult Literacy offers free, individualized, and confidential tutoring with trained volunteer tutors from the community. Learners gain the skills they need to read to their children, complete job applications, pass the driver’s test, write a birthday card, and achieve any other goal they have set for themselves.

Learners must meet the following requirements:

at least 16 years old;
not currently enrolled in school; and
able to speak English at least at a basic level.

Volunteer Tutors

An Adult Literacy Tutor meets regularly with an Adult Learner who wants to improve their reading and writing skills. Volunteers tutor at libraries, adult educational facilities, and community-based organizations. Tutors must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Patience, sensitivity, and flexibility are essential.

Tutors are required to attend an orientation and complete basic tutor training with the Literacy Coordinator. Additional volunteer training is offered online through California State Library Literacy Program and in person at the library.

Adult Literacy Tutors must agree to

meet with a Learner in a public place at least once a week for a minimum of one hour;
help the Learner to identify specific reading and writing goals;
periodically evaluate the Learner’s reading and writing progress using the State Library’s Roles and Goals achievement survey;
report tutoring hours each month; and
treat Learners with respect and maintain a student-focused approach to learning.

To apply to be an Adult Literacy Tutor, complete the Tutor Application below.

Digital Literacy (Computer) Assistance

One-on-one Digital Literacy Tutoring is available by appointment. We have desktop and laptop computers, as well as tablets, available, or you may bring your own device. Appointments are available at all branch libraries (Colusa, Arbuckle, Grimes, Maxwell, Princeton, Stonyford, and Williams).

Contact Literacy Coordinator Pam DaGrossa (530-458-0373, pdagrossa@countyofcolusa.com) to request an appointment, or complete the Learner Application below.

Career Online High School

Colusa County Free Library’s Career Online High School (COHS) offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and career certificate online. This program provides a limited number of scholarships to qualified Adult Learners who are looking to advance their careers, prepare for workforce entry, or continue their education. Career Online High School through the Colusa County Free Library is open to all eligible County residents.

Other Services
Group workshops in specific topics (e.g., How to Make a PowerPoint Presentation)
Parenting workshops
Career readiness
Conversation, Poetry, Book, and Scrabble Clubs
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) test preparation
Voter registration assistance
Citizenship test preparation