In a vibrant community initiative, the Addison Public Library’s Read and Write in Spanish class has made a significant impact on the lives of local residents, providing essential literacy skills in their primary language. The program, a collaboration between the library and Elmhurst University, is part of the library’s strategic focus to support and reflect its diverse community.
For Alfonso and Anabel, two students who attended the class, the program has been nothing short of transformative. Alfonso, who struggled with reading and writing, found the guidance of the class invaluable. "The teacher helped me a lot. I didn’t know how to read – very little – and to write, less," he shared. His achievements have filled his family with pride, motivating him to continue his education. "My family is proud because I learned a lot. Many things that I didn’t know, many things he [the teacher] taught me. I’m going to take this class again."
Anabel also experienced significant progress. "This class helped me a lot to read because I didn’t know how to read. I knew I could write, but I didn’t know how to read, and I was helped a lot," she explained. Anabel’s journey doesn’t end here; she plans to continue with the class to improve her reading skills further. "I recommend this class because it helped us a lot to be able to read and for studying, there is no age, because there is still opportunity.
The program’s success stems from a strategic partnership with Elmhurst University, spearheaded Addison Public Library staff members Lesley Cyrier, Head of Adult Services, and Sara Lock, Adult Services Specialist. Recognizing a gap in services for Spanish-speaking adults, Lock researched local Spanish literacy programs and reached out to universities for collaboration. Elmhurst University’s Professor of Spanish, Beatriz Gómez Acuña, Ph.D, eagerly responded, suggesting a student intern from their internship program to teach the class. This collaboration was seen as a win-win for both institutions, providing students with valuable teaching experience while also fulfilling a community need.
“This class has made a difference in this community by providing a rare opportunity for Spanish speakers to improve their skills in their primary language,” said Sara Lock.
Mateo, the student intern and instructor of the class, brought a personal connection to his role. As a resident of Addison and an alum of Addison Trail High School, Mateo was thrilled to give back to his community. “I'm really excited to teach at the Addison Public Library because I am from Addison and I went to Addison Trail High School. I came here to the United States 5 years ago. My family has always been located here in Addison; we love the community. This community has provided me with tons of opportunities for me to be successful, so it's time for me to give back,” Mateo shared.
Soon to be a junior at Elmhurst University, Mateo is preparing to become a teacher in Spanish, Italian, and ESL. “I'm really excited too because I'm going to be a teacher. This has been a great opportunity for me to start utilizing my methods, plans, and help the students in this program.”
The culmination of the class in May was marked by a heartfelt ceremony where students presented their written paragraphs and received "graduation" certificates from Mateo. The event was attended by Mateo’s professor, adding a sense of accomplishment and recognition for all involved.
The Read and Write in Spanish class not only equips students with essential literacy skills but also opens doors for further educational opportunities, such as GED preparation. Both Alfonso and Anabel expressed their intentions to pursue more education, establishing the class’s role in fostering lifelong learning and personal growth.
“Whether the students plan to continue on to take the GED en español class, take this class again to continue their progress, or use what they've learned in other ways, this class has helped people improve their lives,” Lock said.
The success of the Read and Write in Spanish class underscores the importance of impactful community collaboration and exemplifies the library's commitment to being a place that leads, reflects, and supports its diverse community. By addressing educational gaps and fostering partnerships, the library ensures that every community member has the opportunity to succeed.
To view all of the library's upcoming literacy programs, visit addisonlibrary.org/events.