Library’s literacy volunteers program expands services, calls for more community tutors

The Literacy Volunteers Program at the Socorro Public Library continues to grow in scope and impact, offering free educational support to adults across the community and calling on residents to join its team of volunteer tutors.

Library Director Chelsea Jones, who oversees the program, said the initiative has evolved into a multi‑layered resource for adult learners seeking everything from basic reading skills to college‑level support.

“We want to keep this going — it’s not going to stop,” Jones said.

All services are free, a point Jones hopes the community understands clearly.

 “This is being provided in our community by community members,” she said. “Volunteers get so much more out of it than they give.”

The program operates in two major areas: one‑on‑one and small‑group tutoring, and the library’s role as an official Pearson VUE testing site, where residents can complete high‑school equivalency exams and other certifications.

Structured classes are offered multiple times a week for English as a Second Language (ESL), while GED and high‑school equivalency instruction is available through weekly classes or individualized tutoring.

Jones said the program’s flexibility is one of its strengths.

“There’s really room for any type of volunteer,” Jones said. “We have retired teachers and professors, New Mexico Tech students, retired nurses, people from every walk of life. Everyone has a skill that can help someone else.”

The program currently has 14 active volunteers, but Jones said more are always needed. Monthly orientation sessions introduce new tutors to program expectations and the volunteer code of conduct. Individual orientations can also be arranged.

Among the program’s standout contributors are tutor trainers Joan Letizio and Kim Schaffer, who lead instruction at the library and during outreach sessions at the Socorro County Detention Center.

The library has partnered with the facility for three years, primarily working with participants in the RISE inmate rehabilitation program but also assisting any incarcerated individual committed to completing their GED.

Jones said the impact of the program is visible in major milestones and everyday victories. Last year, the library celebrated its first graduation ceremony, recognizing five learners who completed their GED requirements. Meanwhile, a student from the advanced ESL program went on to study robotics at Duke University.

But, Jones emphasized that success is not limited to diplomas or degrees.

“There are successes every day, learning to read with their children, understanding a prescription bottle, reading the newspaper,” she said. “These are basic literacy skills that many people take for granted.”

The library also offers help with computer literacy, including programs like Excel, and supports adults pursuing college coursework or job-related skills.

Jones said the program’s mission is rooted in reducing stigma and encouraging lifelong learning.

 “There’s no stigma to needing help,” she said. “As long as you’re learning and wanting to improve, that’s what matters.”

Residents interested in volunteering or enrolling in literacy services can contact the Socorro Public Library by phone (575-835-1114), email, or by visiting the library at 401 Park St during regular hours.

The hours for the Socorro Library are Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The next volunteer orientation is scheduled for Jan. 12 at 1 p.m.