Hours:
Monday-Thursday
9 to 8:30
Friday
9 to 5:30
Saturday
9 to 1
To provide literacy education in the Columbus area to motivated students through dedicated volunteer tutors.
Why would I use the literacy council?
I do not speak English.
I want to learn to read.
I want to read or write better.
I want to get a GED...
Who would teach me?
Volunteer tutors.
When are classes offered?
Class times are set up between the tutor and the student.
How long will I be in the program?
Students work at their own speed.
Is child care available to students families?
Child care is not provided at the library or by the literacy council.
What is the cost?
It's free!
Where are classes held?
Tutoring is done at the Columbus Public Library or some other location agreed to by the student and tutor.
How do I get started?
Call the Columbus Public Library at 623-5910 they will put you in contact with the literacy coordinator.
Who receives tutoring?
ESL students, those needing GED exam preparation, basic education...
Who can become a volunteer tutor?
You must be 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or it's equivalent.
Do tutors receive training?
Volunteer tutors receive training provided by the Columbus Literacy Council or other organizations.
Are materials provided or do I have to buy them?
Books and other materials to teach literacy are provided at no expense to tutors and students.
When would I have to do tutoring?
Tutoring sessions are set up by the tutor and student for the most convenient time for both. Tutors are responsible for scheduling the library meeting room if you wish to tutor there.
How many students would I have?
Most tutors work one on one with students or they may have a small group of students.
What opportunities are there for tutors?
Tutor volunteers can attend literacy conferences and attend other programs as approved by the Council Board training. Expenses for the conference/training are paid by the council if money is available. A tutor can become a tutor representative on the Council Board. Once a year there is a recognition event to thank tutors for their efforts.
When was the Columbus Literacy Council established?
It was founded in 1989 and is affiliated with Wisconsin Literacy, Inc., ProLiteracy America and other national, regional and local organizations.
Why is this service needed?
One in five people living in Columbia County is functionally illiterate or 10,772 residents in our county. By definition, a functionally illiterate adult has less than an 8th grade education and the basic skills for only minimal survival.
How is the Council funded?
The Literacy Council is a non-profit organization funded through donations, memorials, planned gifts, Pick N' Save "We Care Program", United Way funding and literacy grants from various organizations such as MATC.
When are Columbus Literacy Council Board meetings held?
The board consists of 3-7 board members and meets 4 times a year. For information on the council board or how to become a board member contact Peggy Kindschi, Columbus Literacy Council President, at Columbus Public Library 623-5910.