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OC Read
The literacy division of OC Public Libraries.
It's never too late to learn how to read.
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Since 1991, OC Read has offered adult literacy tutoring and programming for Orange County residents seeking to improve their reading, writing, or English literacy skills. OC Read services are available for non-ESL and ESL learners over the age of 16.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, visit the Become a Tutor page to see current volunteer descriptions and opportunities.
For more information about how to enroll as a learner, visit the Learners page, call (714) 566-3070, or email readoc@occr.ocgov.com.
Why Literacy Matters
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59 million adults in the U.S. have literacy skills at or below a PIAAC Level 1—the lowest level. For perspective, there are roughly 260-275 million adults in the U.S., meaning about 21% read at or below a Level 1. Proficiency is considered Level 3, the equivalent of 7th-8th grade reading skills.
- 1 in 4 adults in Orange County read below the 8th grade level
- 16% of adults in Orange County do not have a high school diploma
- Children of parents with low literacy skills have a 72% chance of being at the lowest reading levels
- Increasing a person's literacy skills just one level from the lowest level makes it 50% less likely they will live in poverty.
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OC Read Day is one of the many programs offered by the literacy division of OC Public Libraries to support family literacy development.
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Adult Literacy Services
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OC Read offers basic literacy skill tutoring and support through the Reading and Walk-in Tutoring programs. These services cover a range of literacy skill development for both native and non-native English speakers. Visit the Learners page for a full description of each program.
Family Literacy Services
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Family Literacy programs provide educational programs for learners and their family members of all ages. The purpose of these programs is to create opportunities for practical, real-world literacy learning experiences. Visit the Families page for further details.
ESL Referrals
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Available for Orange County residents looking for English tutoring or classes in reading, writing, speaking, and/or listening. OC Read offers personalized assistance locating low-cost and no-cost programs throughout the county. Patrons seeking referral services should call or email OC Read.
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Explore the OC Read website to learn more about literacy services. Or call 714-566-3070 to speak with a librarian. The office can be reached Monday through Saturday during library business hours.
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Visit the Become a Tutor page to learn about the volunteer requirements and opportunities available through OC Read.
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Yes. We have tutoring for both ESL and non-ESL learners. Visit the Learners page or call 714-566-3070 for more information.
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No, tutoring is only for adults. However, some of our family literacy programs may be helpful for children struggling with reading. We also can help parents and caregivers get started with BrainFuse HelpNow, a free, live, online tutoring service offered through the library which can help children with any school subject, including reading. Call or email us for assistance.
Phone: 714-566-3070
Email: readoc@occr.ocgov.com
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All services and programming are free.
