SALEM- The Salem Public Library, in conjunction with the Adult Basic Literacy Education program at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center, is combatting adult illiteracy in the area with the implementation of an adult literacy program at the library.

Open and free to anyone 18 or older, the program is just the second one in Columbiana County (the other is in East Liverpool).

Focusing on providing its participants with the fundamental skills needed for employment, the program is an attempt to ensure all Salem residents have an opportunity to learn and grow, according to Library Director Brad Stephens.

"The program is designed to help adults without fundamental literacy learn basic skills necessary to be productive in the work force," he said. "We want to provide all Salem residents with the opportunity to learn and grow, be product and get the most out of life as possible."

According to a 2005 county profile prepared by The Institute for Local Government Administration and Rural Development for the county Department of Job and Family Services, the 2000 U.S. Census Bureau revealed that 3,900 county residents 25 or older had less than a ninth-grade education, a statistic that reflects the need for literacy programs in the county, according to CCCTC Adult Director Kelly Weikart.

"There is an obvious need for basic literacy programs in this county," she said. "I believe there is a strong correlation between the low level of education and high poverty rate in this county, and these free programs are an excellent source for those willing to improve themselves but have little resources to do so."

More depends on basic adult literacy skills than just employability, though, Stephens said.

Citing the National Adult Literacy Survey conducted by the federal government that indicates children in homes where the parents have poor literacy skills tend to have similar problems, Stephens said it is important to stop the cycle.

"Not only do better reading skills help in employment, they help in raising children," he said. "This program coincides perfectly with our children's early learning programs and emphasizes the education of the family as a whole."

Structured upon adult literacy curriculum, the program will provide an intimate learning environment, with students working directly with instructors and in small groups, Stephens said.

Meetings will be held once or twice each week, with the schedule planned according to those of the participants.

For class schedule or more information on the program, call the library at 330-332-0042 or visit www.salem.lib.oh.us.

Kevin Howell can be reached at khowell@salemnews.net