Big things are happening at Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County.

“We are growing fast. Over the last year we served triple the number of students as we did in 2022,” said Julie LaGrow, the Executive Director of LVCC. “It shows the demand in our community for this kind of service, and it also speaks to the dedication of our volunteers as we try to keep up with this demand.”

Literacy Volunteers provides free one on one and small group tutoring to adults looking to learn to read, write, do math, improve English speaking skills, or earn high school equivalency. Volunteer tutors conduct individual or small group instruction to students approximately two hours a week, and provide encouragement and support to adult students as they work toward their goals. The organization serves the entirety of Chautauqua County, with adult learning centers in Fredonia at 10 Park Place, and in Jamestown inside the James Prendergast library.

The Next Chapter Bookstore, right beside the Literacy Center on Park Place, accepts donations of used books and sells them, with all proceeds going to fund LVCC programs. “The bookstore has been very successful, and we have some exciting changes coming. We’ll be extending our hours of operation, and carrying merchandise from local artisans,” LaGrow said. “There will be more children’s activities, book signings, and other fun events.”

“As exciting as this is,” she added, “we very much need to find more volunteers, both tutors and for the bookstore.” LaGrow mentioned that tutor training is online and can be done in the comfort of their own home. When asked what makes a good tutor, LaGrow said “Patience, kindness, passion, and skill. You don’t need prior teaching or tutoring experience, but a high school diploma is required.”

This weekend, LVCC will be participating in the Prendergast Library Community Block Party on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet staff member Kaylee there, who can share more information about LVCC’s services and volunteer needs.

“Anyone interested in learning more about LVCC, the Next Chapter Bookstore, tutoring, or volunteering is encouraged to call our adult learning center at 716-366-4438 or stop by 10 Park Pl. in Fredonia,” said LaGrow. “People can also follow us on FB, Instagram or our website (lvccread.org) to find out what is going on each week at the Next Chapter Bookstore. Help us change our community one adult learner at a time!”