Building Adult Skills for Everyday Success
Emerging Quality Standard Rating
Our Adult Services programs support personal growth, literacy, and community connection. Whether you want to improve your reading and language skills with our Adult Literacy and ESL programs, discover new interests through workshops, or attending educational talks, we offer resources and opportunities for everyone.
With expert guidance and a welcoming space, we're here to help you learn, connect, and grow at any stage of life.
Overview
Focus
Developing and strengthening reading, writing, and English skills for adults to reach personal and professional goals.
Action Items
- Expand workforce-focused ESL modules. Strengthen integration with Family Learning Centers, ensuring multigenerational learning opportunities that support both adults and their children
- Expand the collection, analysis, and sharing of adult program data to improve services, demonstrate impact, and guide future programming priorities.
Top 10 Most Popular Programs
- ESL Conversation Clubs & Programs
- Adult Literacy 1:1 tutoring & group learning
- Citizenship (Interview Prep)
- Master Gardeners
- Legal Resources & Immigration
- Financial Literacy & Taxes (VITA Tax Help)
- Health & Wellness (Yoga, Line Dancing)
- Community Engagement & Social Connections
- Hobbies, Arts & Crafts (Fiber Art, Insiders)
- Book Clubs & Author Visits
Hallmark Programs
Adult Literacy
(Reading & Writing)
San José Public Library
Quality Standards:
Emerging
289
Programs
1,675
Attendance
5.8
Attendees per Program
English as a Second Language (ESL)
San José Public Library
Quality Standards:
Emerging
2,108
Sites
19,564
Attendance
9.28
Attendees per Program
Key Outcomes
SJPL provides safe, welcoming spaces for adults to build essential reading, writing, speaking, and technology skills. Interest in ESL continues to grow, with long waitlists reflecting strong demand; nearly half of incoming learners report limited English comprehension, yet over 50% leave with significantly improved skills.