Celebrating a Year of Growth and Learning:

Manatee Literacy Council’s Book Club for English Language Learners

As 2024 comes to a close, the Manatee Literacy Council is excited to celebrate a year of remarkable achievements in their Book Club for intermediate and higher level English Language Learners. Tomorrow, the group will wrap up their final book of the year, completing a total of eight books, each over 300 pages long. These books have not only challenged the learners’ reading skills but have also provided them with an opportunity to engage deeply with literature, vocabulary, and complex themes.

A Year of Reading

Throughout the year, participants in the book club have explored a wide variety of books that have tested their comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. Each book, though lengthy, offered an engaging story and a valuable learning experience. Under the leadership of Barbara Pfeiffer, the director of the program, the book club has thrived. Facilitators Victoria Murphy and Denise Touchberry have played key roles in leading the discussions, with Victoria leading one book and Denise leading two. Their combined efforts have ensured that each session remains interactive and enriching for all participants.

A Core Group of Committed Learners

While 17 different learners have participated in the book club at least once during 2024, a core group of six learners has consistently returned to finish each book. This group’s dedication to the program is a testament to their commitment to improving their English skills. In the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, eight learners participated, showing a steady involvement throughout the year.

This core group has engaged in thoughtful discussions, contributing new ideas and perspectives, expanding their vocabulary, and developing a strong sense of community. The books read have sparked lively debates, reflections, and meaningful connections, not just around language but also around the shared experience of learning together.

Building Skills Through Reading

The book club is about much more than just reading. It’s a space where participants develop their language skills, build a sense of community, and engage in cultural exploration. Each book provides an opportunity for learners to practice speaking and listening, learn new language structures, and discuss complex ideas. Whether it’s analyzing characters, discussing plot twists, or exploring deep themes, the book club fosters an environment where learners can confidently practice English in a supportive setting.

For many participants, the book club offers a chance to connect with others who are also working to improve their language skills. It is a space to build confidence in English while engaging with others in meaningful conversations. The skills learners develop in the club not only enhance their fluency but also give them the tools to navigate English-speaking environments both in the classroom and in everyday life.

The growth and progress made by learners in 2024 have been impressive. Whether it was completing a challenging 300-page novel or contributing a thoughtful idea to a discussion, each participant has made significant strides in their journey to greater literacy and fluency.

The council is grateful to the dedicated facilitators, the learners, and the community supporters who have made 2024 such a successful year for the book club. A special thanks goes to Barbara Pfeiffer, whose leadership and vision continue to inspire the program. Here’s to another year of reading, learning, and growing together!

Volunteers Needed to Help Adults in Manatee County Learn English

As the book club looks ahead to 2025, the Manatee Literacy Council is actively seeking volunteers to help adults in Manatee County learn to read, write, and speak English. Volunteers are essential to the success of the program, and their support can make a significant difference in the lives of learners.

Whether interested in helping in a classroom or providing one-on-one tutoring, volunteers help empower adult learners to build the skills they need to succeed. No prior teaching experience is required—just a passion for helping others.

Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to reach out to the Manatee Literacy Council. Volunteers are crucial in supporting the mission to provide literacy services to adults in the community, and their involvement can change lives.

Join the Book Club in 2025!
For those who would like to join the book club in the new year, whether as participants or volunteers, the Manatee Literacy Council welcomes new faces. Intermediate and advanced English learners are encouraged to get involved and continue their journey toward greater literacy. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming books, meeting dates, and volunteer opportunities.

Here’s to another exciting year of great books and great conversations!