Steve Zach's blog

Become an ESL tutor!

Submitted by Steve Zach on Thu, 08/04/2011 - 4:25pm

Volunteer here at the Parker Williams Branch and help someone open up a door to new opportunities in their life by being able to read, write and speak English.

We will host a training session for volunteer English as a second language tutors on August 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. After this session, tutors will work with a small group of adults once or twice per week to help them gain literacy skills for work purposes, to help their children in school, or for countless other uses.  Second language ability is not required for tutors, and materials including lesson activities are provided.

For more information or to register for this workshop, please call us at 281-484-2036.

Study for the GED online

Submitted by Steve Zach on Wed, 06/22/2011 - 6:57pm

If you have been interested in studying for your GED but have difficulty scheduling a class in person, you may be interested in an online class that will begin soon.  Parker Williams Branch Library, 10851 Scarsdale, will host orientation and pretesting on July 6 from 1 to 4:30 p.m.  for an online GED preparation class sponsored by College of the Mainland.  The only requirements for registration are as follows:

Share a Book (or the Ability to Read It)

Submitted by Steve Zach on Mon, 06/20/2011 - 9:57am

Christopher and Walter Dean MyersThis story from StoryCorps, told by beloved author Walter Dean Myers, is an excellent reminder that someone close to us -- a co-worker, family member or friend  -- may desire assistance with reading, and also a reminder to never miss an opportunity to read aloud. Volunteer as a tutor through the library literacy program or call Literacy Advance of Houston or the

Get "Money Smart"

Submitted by Steve Zach on Tue, 03/22/2011 - 11:29am

In difficult economic times, getting "Money Smart" is more important than ever. Each April, the FDIC sponsors free financial education events around Houston with a goal of helping consumers learn about savings and money management on any number of topics.

Join us at any of the events at Harris County Public Library branches listed below. In the meantime, learn about other Money Week (April 2-9) speakers and events around Houston at http://www.moneyweekhouston.com/. And anytime during the year, take the Money Smart online class available on our databases page http://www.hcpl.net/ref/dbsubs.htm#business

Please contact the branch hosting the session you would like to attend:

Help someone learn to read

Submitted by Steve Zach on Mon, 04/05/2010 - 10:12am

Here is an excellent volunteer opportunity: get to know someone with a different set of challenges, help this person with a skill he may use anytime, anywhere and even improve his self-image, and in the process gain a sense of satisfaction for yourself.  It begins this Thursday, April 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Octavia Fields Branch Library, which is hosting a training session for volunteer literacy tutors.  It continues with weekly tutoring sessions at any branch library.  You can arrange these according to your schedule.  Ask at the library (281-446-3377) or contact Steve Zach at 713-749-9035 for more information.

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