About LEARN

• [+] Learner Requirements
  • Be at least 18 years old, or 16 if not enrolled in school;
  • Make a minimum commitment of six months;
  • Meet with a tutor for 1-1/2 hours twice a week at a County Library branch.
• [+] Volunteer Tutor Requirements
  • Be at least 18 years old, with the equivalent of a high school diploma;
  • Pass the County of San Diego's Volunteer Background Check;
  • Successfully complete LEARN's Tutor Training program;
  • Commit to a minimum of six months as a tutor;
  • Meet with a learner for 1-1/2 hours twice a week at a County Library branch;
  • Be patient, flexible and supportive with a sense of humor.
  • Apply now to be a volunteer tutor »

Adult Literacy in San Diego County

An average 20% of adults locally struggle with reading and writing. It can be a source of embarrassment for adults, who are often unwilling to ask for help.

• Many have learning disabilities;
• Others received insufficient individual instruction in school or at home;
• Others are immigrants seeking to learn English.

Adult Literacy Services at San Diego County Library

• LEARN offers free, confidential adult literacy and learning services;
• Services include one-on-one and small group tutoring and computer-aided instruction;
• Centers are in the El Cajon and Vista branch libraries;
• Services are available at all San Diego County Library branches.

How LEARN Works

• Adults are assessed by a LEARN staff member at the their most convenient branch library; new English learners are assessed by Laubach personnel.
• Learners are matched with a trained volunteer tutor;
• Learners and tutors agree on a schedule and meeting place;
• Tutors are trained in learner-centered curriculum and teaching methods that help learners achieve goals important in their lives;
• Tutor/learner pairs meet twice a week for 1-1/2 hours per session;
• LEARN provides materials and ongoing support;
• Tutor/learner pairs report progress on a monthly basis.

Apply now to be a volunteer tutor »