Library board hears update on adult literacy outreach and potential employer partnerships

Members of the Farmers Branch Library Board discussed ongoing work to expand adult literacy services during the Jan. 11 meeting, including outreach to community providers and consideration of employer-based needs assessments.

A board member said the group has been “working on the adult literacy issue” and described conversations with regional providers. The presenter reported that a Dallas contact, “Rachel,” responded enthusiastically and that the group had been directed to Aspire (described in the transcript as “the old Lids program”). The presenter said Aspire and other partners offer two program models: an in-person small-group option for very low reading levels and an online program that requires participant access to computers.

Board members noted limits to volunteer-driven programs and staff capacity. One member relayed guidance from an outside contact warning that heavily volunteer-dependent models pose liability and staffing issues and said community colleges and some school districts (Richardson ISD and Irving ISD were named) run existing programs.

The presenter suggested the board might pursue a needs assessment with the local chamber of commerce to reach manufacturing and service-sector employers whose employees may have lower educational attainment. No formal action or funding decision was taken at the meeting; the discussion focused on identifying partners, potential target populations and next steps for outreach.

Board members asked for follow-up contacts and offers to help: one attendee said she would pass along the name of a diagnostician at Newman Smith who might connect library staff with schools.

The transcript does not include a formal vote or a timeline for implementation.