Adult Literacy

A learner and volunteer work together on literacy activities.

The Adult Literacy Program offers free, one-on-one tutoring in basic reading, writing and math for English-speaking adults 19 years or older (exceptions may apply).

Volunteer tutors work with learners to help them reach their literacy goals.

Toronto Public Library offers the Adult Literacy Program in the following branches:
Library Days and Hours
Albion
416-394-5173
Monday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Barbara Frum
416-395-5424
Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Don Mills
416-395-5849
Monday, Tuesday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Downsview
416-395-5724
Monday, Tuesday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Friday
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Fairview
Closed for renovations
Malvern
416-396-3668
Wednesday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Thursday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Maria A. Shchuka
416-394-1054
Monday, Tuesday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
North York Central Library
416-395-5554
Monday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
S. Walter Stewart
416-396-3852
Wednesday
12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
York Woods
416-395-5724
Thursday
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Who volunteers?

The Adult Literacy Program matches learners with volunteers who tutor them in basic reading, writing and math. Once accepted into the program, volunteers will get training on how to be a tutor and are supported with all the resources the library offers to help learners.

Volunteers are needed!

More ways to improve your literacy skills

Adult Literacy books

Books for adults working to improve their reading, writing and math skills.

Family literacy for adult literacy learners

Videos that help adult learners build important reading and writing skills in their children.

Services to the literacy community

Toronto Public Library has focused services for organizations and agencies that support adult literacy and skills upgrading programs.

Outreach presentations and visits

If you are an agency who provides adult literacy support, a good way for your learners to connect with the local library is by arranging for library staff to visit learners in your program. TPL offers in-person and remote presentations that focus on general library information and recommended services and resources to support adult learners.

Local library tours

A field trip to a library branch is a great way to learn more about what the library has to offer adult learners. Adult Literacy Services staff can arrange for your learners to have a guided library tour. With 100 branches, Toronto Public Library has a location near you!

Resources

Contact us

For more information about the Adult Literacy program, to arrange a visit from library staff or a library tour please contact:

Adult Literacy Services

Logo for Adult Literacy Services