Participants in the Read Write Now program at Newman Library are building English language skills, confidence, friendships, and stronger community connections, demonstrating the program’s life-changing impact on Newman’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community.
The group began in May 2026 after newly arrived Newman resident Uma and her husband, Dinesh, approached the library looking for opportunities to improve their English. Inspired by their enquiry, library staff member and Read Write Now volunteer tutor Julie established a learning group at the library, supported by the resources and guidance provided through Read Write Now.
What started with one learner has steadily grown. Participants meet regularly at the library, learning at their own pace while supporting one another. Along the way, they have formed friendships, developed confidence, and become more connected to the wider Newman community.
Uma was soon joined by Sujee, another recent arrival from Sri Lanka, and later by Theyyiba from India, whose confidence with English has made her a valued source of encouragement for other learners. Alier, originally from South Sudan, also attends regularly, using the program to strengthen his communication skills and better understand opportunities available to his family.
Despite their diverse backgrounds and learning goals, the group has developed a strong culture of encouragement.
“We all learn at our own pace while supporting each other,” Julie said. “It is really encouraging to watch how supportive they are.”
Learning extends beyond structured English activities. Participants read aloud, practise writing, explore library resources and engage in conversations with staff and community members. Through these connections, many have also become involved in other library programs, including Saturday adult craft sessions.
The positive outcomes achieved by the group underscore the effectiveness of the Read Write Now model, which provides adult learners with volunteer tutoring, practical resources, and ongoing support to help them develop essential literacy and communication skills.
The success of the program highlighted a growing demand for ongoing learning opportunities. In response, Newman Library collaborated with Vocational Training Services (VTS) to provide participants with clear pathways into further training, enabling learners to continue developing their skills while strengthening their connection to education and employment opportunities. The collaboration between Read Write Now and Newman Library has been mutually beneficial, helping learners access ongoing education while reinforcing the library’s role as a hub for lifelong learning.
Julie says the support provided by Read Write Now has been invaluable. “Thank you to Read Write Now for all the support we have received. The resources have been very welcome, and it has been wonderful to watch these lovely people grow in confidence.”
With new learners continuing to join, the Newman Library group is growing not only as a place to learn English, but as a place where friendships are formed, confidence develops and people find a stronger sense of belonging in their community.
For more information or to join this growing community, please contact:
- Newman Library on: newlib@eastpilbara.wa.gov.au
- Vocational Training Service on: temoananui@vts-training.com.au
