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Library outlines one‑on‑one literacy tutoring and moves toward volunteer model
Summary
Staff described a one‑on‑one literacy tutoring effort led by Julie Hewitt (trained in Project Read) that has improved reading outcomes for a handful of children but currently demands staff time; the board discussed shifting the program to a volunteer‑led model after tax‑season VITA work concludes.
Library staff told the board that a one‑on‑one literacy tutoring program has been launched with early positive results but is time‑intensive and may be converted to a volunteer‑run model.
Julie Hewitt received training in a Project Read program and has been tutoring primarily children one‑on‑one. "She has about 4 or 5 [students], and they've expressed their appreciation ... some of their kids who've been struggling are reading better now," a library staff member said. The staff member added the sessions take substantial staff hours and the program currently operates with a small caseload.
To scale the program, staff discussed transitioning it to a volunteer model and building a volunteer management structure; staff mentioned contacts from Utah volunteer programs and foster‑grandparent programs that have offered support. Board members recommended completing the current VITA tax assistance period before expanding or changing the tutoring model.
Staff said they will explore turning the tutoring into a volunteer‑managed program so the library can serve more learners without further straining operating hours and budget.
