Free Reading Help Now at All 14 ABBE Regional Libraries

Literacy SC, a Columbia-based nonprofit, announced today the expansion of its free adult tutoring services to all 14 locations within the ABBE Regional Library System, spanning Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, and Edgefield counties.

This expansion builds on the foundation laid in July 2024 by Aiken residents Janet Kabel and the late Loretta Beckner. These two volunteers first brought Literacy SC's Turning Pages adult reading program to Aiken and served as the branch's co-coordinators for a year. Their dream to provide 1-on-1 reading support for the community has now grown into a four-county regional resource.

According to Amanda Travaglini, Literacy SC’s current Aiken Branch Coordinator, the data made the shift necessary. "Since we launched Turning Pages Aiken, 40 percent of our enrolled learners have come from outside of Aiken," said Travaglini. "Some were driving as much as 40 minutes each way to reach us. It quickly became apparent that we can better serve surrounding counties by increasing our accessibility. By meeting learners at their local libraries, we ensure that educational opportunities are no longer limited by geography."

"I am very excited about expanding our partnership with Literacy SC's Turning Pages from the Aiken County Public Library into all 14 of our library locations," said Mary Jo Dawson, director of the ABBE Regional Library System. "By partnering with this successful adult literacy program, our library deepens its promise to the communities we serve by ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they start, has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Literacy SC’s Turning Pages teaches adults to read through personalized, one-on-one tutoring that is free of cost. It is also available at libraries across Richland, Lexington, and Saluda Counties. By delivering this program to all 14 ABBE locations, the organization is making it easier for busy adults to gain the skills they want for a better work life, better family life, and better spiritual life.

“Reading well opens doors,” said Lisa Cole, CEO of Literacy SC. “Whether you want to share a bedtime story with your grandkids, feel confident reading your Bible aloud at church, or fill out a job application, we have a tutor ready to help you at your local library.”

Adults who want to improve their reading can enroll by calling 803-679-1990. Volunteers who want to be a trained tutor and help change someone’s life can visit LiteracySC.org/be-a-tutor to learn more about the commitment.