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Free for All Participants

Every word opens a new world.

Literacy Volunteers of Cayuga County provides free, personalized instruction in reading, writing, and English as a Second Language for adults 16 and older throughout our community.

Photo: adult learner in session
500+
Adults Served Annually
40+
Trained Volunteers
Free
All Programs & Materials
1:1
Personalized Instruction

Programs built around you

All of our services are free, confidential, and tailored to each learner's goals and schedule.

Basic Literacy

One-on-one tutoring for adults looking to strengthen reading and writing skills at any level. Work at your own pace with a trained volunteer tutor.

Learn more →

English as a Second Language

Build conversational and written English skills with a dedicated tutor. Available in one-on-one and small group formats to help you reach your goals.

Learn more →

Volunteer Tutoring

Make a real difference in your community. We train and support community members who want to help adults achieve their literacy goals. No teaching experience required.

Get trained →

Simple steps to get started

Getting started is easy and completely free.

1

Reach Out

Call or fill out our contact form to express interest. All inquiries are confidential.

2

Meet With Us

We'll have a brief, friendly conversation to understand your goals and learning needs.

3

Get Matched

We pair you with a trained volunteer tutor who fits your schedule and learning style.

4

Start Learning

Begin personalized sessions at a time and place that works best for you.

Join us in the community

Workshops, orientations, and community events open to all.

Apr
14
Volunteer Training

New Tutor Orientation

📍 Auburn Public Library  ·  6:00–8:00 PM

Learn about our programs and get started as a volunteer literacy tutor.

Apr
22
ESL

English Conversation Circle

📍 Community Center, Auburn  ·  10:00–11:30 AM

A welcoming drop-in group for ESL learners to practice everyday English.

May
3
Literacy

Learner Celebration Night

📍 LVCC Office  ·  5:30–7:00 PM

Celebrating milestones and progress of our literacy learners.

May
17
Volunteer Training

Advanced Tutor Workshop

📍 Seymour Library  ·  9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Deepen your tutoring skills with strategies for working with adult learners.

View full calendar →

Stories from our community

Updates, learner spotlights, and news from Literacy Volunteers.

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Learner Spotlight

"For the first time, I read a bedtime story to my grandchildren."

Maria shares how working with her tutor over 18 months changed her daily life and her relationship with her family.

March 28, 2026
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Program Update

New ESL Small Group Sessions Starting This Spring

We're excited to announce expanded ESL programming with new group sessions meeting twice a week in Auburn.

March 15, 2026
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Volunteer News

Local Teacher Volunteers 10 Years and Counting

We celebrate longtime volunteer Tom, who has helped more than 30 learners in a decade of dedicated tutoring.

February 20, 2026

Ready to change a life — starting with your own?

Become a volunteer tutor with Literacy Volunteers of Cayuga County. Training is provided and no prior teaching experience is needed.

Volunteer Today