HUNTINGTON BEACH : Literacy Program Helps ‘Open Doors’

Manuel is 55, and all his life he’s wanted to be able to read.

But during his childhood, he worked as a field laborer and often missed the start of the school year. He dropped out of school at 16, and has worked in construction for 30 years.

Yet Manuel never gave up, and like many other adults, he went to the Literacy Volunteers of America’s Huntington Valley program at the Huntington Beach Central Library for help.

Finally, Manuel, one of about 1,400 students involved in the program over the past decade, can read.

His success story is one of many published in “Open Doors,” a 60-page book produced by students, volunteers and the staff that celebrates the 10th anniversary of the local literacy program. In the book, Manuel wrote: “I am glad I went to the library for help. They have taught me more than I learned in all of my years at school. It’s hard for a grown man to admit that he can’t read, but don’t be afraid. I have learned a great deal, and I am still learning.”

Duan also wanted to learn to read, write and speak English. “When you are unable to read or write and are surrounded by people who can, you feel isolated,” Duan wrote in her excerpt in the book.

“I would like to learn enough to eventually get a good job and a secure future, which would not be possible without the ability to read and write.”

“Open Doors” is filled with poignant stories written by adult literacy students and their tutors. The book chronicles students’ desire to read and the obstacles and embarrassment they overcame to do so.

Linda Light, literacy program director, said the book was put together as a special memento to recognize students’ accomplishments.

Light said seeing their writings in print was a major achievement for the students.

“It’s done unbelievable things for their self-esteem,” she said. “The most difficult job we have is not teaching them reading, but teaching them to believe that they can do it.”

Joanna Charleton, who has been a tutor for five years, lauded her student, Manuel, for being persistent: “He set his mind on his goals and didn’t quit until he achieved his goals.”

Light said the literacy program serves people who live in both Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley as well as neighboring cities. About 180 students are currently involved in the program.

“Most of them have some ability to read and/or write,” Light said, adding that often these students “can’t put pen to paper and express thoughts that way.”

Over the past 10 years, about 1,300 volunteers have been trained to assist individual learners.

“It’s like any type of volunteer work, there’s just a gratification in helping others,” Charleton said. “There’s a real joy in sharing their achievements.”

“Open Doors” is available for $5 a copy. A book signing will be held Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. at the library, 7111 Talbert Ave. To buy the book or for information about the tutor training program, call (714) 375-5102.