The Great Plains Literacy Council through the Southern Prairie Library System was recently chosen to receive a literacy technology enhancement grant of $1,750 from the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. A new computer with printer and computer supplies was purchased with the grant money and will be used to enhance basic literacy services to functionally illiterate adults in the area. This grant was made possible by state appropriations from the state legislators to the Oklahoma Department of Libraries.

The adult learners and tutors were using an outdated computer that had been purchased several years ago by the literacy council plus the old computer was having problems. Since that computer is needed daily, the new computer will now be reliable and dependable in helping literacy students work independently. The computer software provides highly interactive, self-paced programs that facilitate learning.

“This replacement computer and equipment will be providing lessons in spelling, phonics, GED, pronunciation, citizenship, writing, and English as a Second Language,” said Rachel Beckner, President of the Great Plains Literacy Council. “It will enhance our outreach efforts for direct and indirect instructional service for learners age 16 and older.”

Library Automation Coordinator Janet Howard set up the new computer in a more private area of the Altus Public Library for tutors and students to use with more room. That space will have less interruptions than at the public computers in the library.

According to The 2003 State Assessment of Adult Literacy, 12 % of adults in Oklahoma are functioning at the below basic level having no more than the simplest and most concrete literacy skills. Another 31% who perform at the basic level have only the skills necessary to perform simple everyday literacy activities. These statistics are reasons why the Great Plains Literacy Council is trying to help others learn to read, write, or speak English with updated resources and equipment.

The Department of Libraries is committed to providing resources and assistance to volunteer, community based literacy programs that address these needs.

Feel free to contact the Great Plains Literacy Council at 580-477-2890 for additional information.