THOUSAND OAKS : Library Schedules 1st Literacy Fair

Conejo Valley educators will try to draw attention to the problem of illiteracy during Thousand Oaks’ first Literacy Fair, which will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Monday in the library on Janss Road.

Recent studies estimate that nearly half of American adults have limited literacy skills, but many are too embarrassed to seek tutoring, according to Marge Ceran, coordinator of the Conejo Valley Adult Education Literacy Program.

With its displays of resources from a dozen local literacy groups, Monday’s fair might prove to illiterate adults that they can learn to read and write, Ceran said. The Adult Education Literacy Program helps 100 students a year through free tutoring by community volunteers.

“One of our biggest problems is reaching people who need help,” Ceran said. “It’s something they hide--it’s very painful for them.”

Ceran will speak during the literacy fair, as will Ingrid Rimland, a San Diego writer who overcame adult illiteracy to earn a doctorate in education and write an award-winning novel. The speeches are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

Admission to the Literacy Fair is free. Displays will include information from the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, the Simi Valley Adult Education Reading Department and the Ventura County Library Services Agency Reading Program for Adults.