Department: County Library
Department Head/Elected Official: Edward Melton, Executive Director
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Grant
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): Texas State Library & Archives Commission
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: N/A - Goal not applicable to request
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request by the County Library for approval to submit an application to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for grant funds in the amount of $10,000, with no required match, for the FY 2025 Texas Reads Program.
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Background and Discussion: Harris County, Texas, has a population of more than 4.7 million, which includes 1.2 million immigrants. Nearly 150 languages are spoken in Harris County. Harris County Public Library (HCPL) serves the residents of Harris County with a variety of educational opportunities, notably including a comprehensive array of English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. These ESL classes are vital in supporting non-native English speakers as they endeavor to learn, read, write, and speak English fluently. Importantly, these classes are provided free of charge and are accessible across all 27 branches of HCPL, thanks to the collaborative efforts of library staff and trained volunteers who serve as instructors.
Over the past five years, HCPL has offered a significant number of ESL classes, totaling 14,872 sessions. Additionally, HCPL has facilitated 2,236 citizenship classes, further assisting individuals in their journey towards integration and citizenship. Classes have been conducted within HCPL's library branches and partner locations, ensuring widespread accessibility and impact within the community. HCPL is currently unable to meet the demand of the community and all HCPL locations have long waiting lists for ESL classes.
Expecte...
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