Literacy programs in California’s public libraries change the lives of nearly 16,000 Californians every year. They help adults learn to read and write and achieve their goals and aspirations. They help families succeed.

Library-based literacy programs are successful because public libraries are trusted spaces at the heart of the community. Libraries are information-rich, welcoming environments where learners can flourish.

California Library Literacy Services was developed in 1984 as the first statewide library-based adult literacy service. Since then, library literacy programs have helped more than a quarter of a million learners and their families.