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Alameda County Library

Learn about our phased approach to reopening that supports the health and safety of our communities and staff. While our buildings remain closed, we are offering No Contact Pickup by appointment, Virtual Programs, Kind, Connected Conversations, Lawyers in the Library , and more.

Education and Literacy Services: Home

Stack of books with the text Education and Literac

General Info

We provide a safe place for reading and writing practice so learners can make positive changes in their lives and communities. Our learners build strong literacy skills for work, family, and lifelong learning.

phone iconPhone: (510) 745-1480
Education and Literacy Manager: Luis Kong

Call us at 510-745-1480 to sign up for our programs. We look forward to hearing from you! 

Reading Clubs

  • Read a book with other learners while practicing English conversation and learning new vocabulary. Classes meet once a week for 2 hours. 

Civics/Citizenship

  • Study for the U.S. citizenship exam by learning U.S. history and government while practicing conversation. Classes meet once a week for 2.5 hours. Intermediate English level required.

One-to-One Tutoring

  • Learn skills related to your personal goals. We match you with a tutor based on your schedule. Tutoring is available at seven branches.  

Small Group Tutoring

  • Join fellow learners in a supportive, small group setting led by a professional educator. Learners will gain new spelling tips, reading comprehension, phonics skills, and writing. 

Career Online High School

  • Earn an accredited high school diploma (not a GED) and a career certificate through the Alameda County Library. All online and completely free. Must be 19 years or older. Access courses 24/7. Lots of additional support.

Job Seeker's Drop-in Clinic

  • Project MOVE - Mobilizing Our Vision for Employment - builds job-readiness by improving the learners' reading, writing, computer, and job hunting skills. Students expand their job prospects by learning to use Alameda County Library's online courses and job search tools. Serves Ashland, Cherryland and San Lorenzo areas.

Basic Computer Skills Lab

  • Learn basic computer skills including keyboarding, e-mail, Internet searches, word processing, online job searches and library resources.

By creating a supportive and vibrant adult learning community, Write to Read at the Alameda County Library provides a safe environment for reading and writing practice where individuals take risks and grow to make positive changes in their lives and communities. We are not currently accepting new tutors.

One-to-One Tutor 

Volunteer tutors work one-to-one with an adult learner twice a week for 2-4 hours. Tutors are matched with a learner according to tutor availability and skills, and work on learning goals determined by the learners. No teaching experience needed! All prospective tutors participate in trainings, roundtable discussions, and in-service workshops to support your tutoring skills and develop a community of practice. 

Tutoring opportunities available at any of the following branches: Albany, Castro Valley, Dublin, Fremont, Newark, San Lorenzo, Union City. 

Reading Club 

Facilitate groups of 6-10 adult learners in reading and English conversation once a week for 2 hours. Training is provided with ongoing roundtable discussions. 

Civics/Citizenship 

Teach U.S. history and government to adult learners preparing for U.S. citizenship. Training and curriculum is provided with ongoing roundtables. 

Basic Computer Skills Lab

Assist library members with basic computer skills including keyboarding, e-mail, Internet searches, word processing, attachments and library resources. Duties may also include assisting learners with Reading Horizons phonics lab and with job seeking online searches and resources. 

ESL Resources

Computer Resources

Typing: 

Mouse Tutorial:
Software Tutorial:
Computer Skills Test:
 

Career Online High School

Earn an accredited high school diploma (not a GED) and a career certificate through the Alameda County Library. All online and completely free. Must be 19 years or older. Complete your online assessment today! 

  • Free to qualifying adults 19 and older
  • 100% online, 24/7 access to classes
  • Up to 18 months to complete program
  • Support from an academic coach
  • Career certificate in 1 of 10 fields