What We Do		Locations and hours
	Literacy Resources		How to volunteer
	Computers for Learning		Frequently Asked Questions about Volunteering

What we do

The Adult Literacy Program offers free, one-on-one tutoring in basic reading, writing and math for English-speaking adults 16 years or older.

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

The service is available at nine literacy offices located in libraries across the City of Toronto.

One in four adults in Toronto have difficulty reading and writing.

Adult learners who enroll in the Adult Literacy Program have a range of goals such as:

• Reading stories to children and helping them with homework
• Understanding household bills and writing cheques
• Writing a shopping list and calculating the cost of groceries
• Writing greeting cards for family and friends
• Reading street signs, billboards and transit information
• Passing the written exam for a driver's license
• Writing a resume, conducting a job search and filling in job applications
• Taking phone messages, filling in forms and writing reports at work
• Depositing a pay cheque using the automated teller machine

Toronto Public Library values reading and life-long learning and is committed to providing access to its resources for the diverse populations of Toronto.

The Adult Literacy Program is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Literacy resources

A collection of literacy resources is available at each of the Adult Literacy Offices. Resources include: books, workbooks, books with audiocassettes, magazines, newspapers, instructional games and computers with a range of program selections.

Computers for learning

Computers are available at each literacy office for learners to practice and apply their literacy skills.

Word processing enables learners to spell check, edit work and focus on the development and organization of ideas.

Learners use the library catalogue and the Internet to explore areas of interest. Learners practice writing skills by sending email to their tutors and program staff.

Locations and hours

General Inquiries: 416-395-5555

View the brochure

Albion District Library 416-394-5173	Monday 12:30 - 8:30 Tuesday 10:00 - 6:00
Don Mills Library 416-395-5849	Tuesday 12:30 - 8:30 Thursday 10:00 - 6:00
Downsview Library 416-395-5724	Monday, Tuesday 12:30 - 8:30 Wednesday, Friday 9:00 - 5:00
Fairview Library 416-395-5765	Monday 12:30 - 8:30 Wednesday 10:00 - 6:00 Friday 9:30 - 5:30
Malvern Library 416-396-3668	Wednesday 10:00 - 6:00 Thursday 12:30 - 8:30 Friday 10:00 - 6:00
Maria A. Shchuka Library 416-394-1054	Monday, Tuesday 12:30 - 8:30 Wednesday 10:00 - 6:00
North York Central Library 416-395-5554	Monday 12:30 - 5:00 Tuesday 12:30 - 8:30 Friday 9:00 - 5:00
S. Walter Stewart Library 416-396-3852	Wednesday 12:30 - 8:30 Thursday 9:00 - 5:00
York Woods Library 416-395-0810	Thursday 9:00 - 5:00

Updated on: July 8, 2009