Library literacy programs offer new lease on life

Library literacy programs offer new lease on life

Ian Gough considers himself privileged to be a volunteer at Logan Libraries.

One of a team of adult literacy volunteer tutors across Logan’s 9 libraries, Ian works with people who either have English as a second language or who struggle with literacy for reasons such as insufficient schooling or learning difficulties.

‘At first I would work with mainly migrants and refugees, a lot of people from war zones like Afghanistan, Syria and Somalia,’ he says.

‘A lot of those people have now moved on and started jobs, which is great.

‘I have met some incredible people. It is very rewarding and a privilege to hear their stories.’

One of the people Ian has assisted is Mohammad Ali Maleki, whose life-long love of poetry led him to reading his poetry on 4ZZZ recently.

Ian helped him with public speaking to prepare him for the reading.

Mohammad is an Iranian refugee who arrived in Australia after being on Manus Island for 7 years.

While there, he had his poetry published for the first time. He now has 3 books published: Truth in the Cage, The Strong Sunflower and The Fox. He has also presented at poetry festivals and collaborated with other artists.

‘It was exciting to read my poems on the radio,’ Mohammad says.

‘I felt fantastic to be sharing my work with so many people.’

Another student of Logan Libraries’ literacy programs, John Brady, recently published his first book, The Lost Warrior. The book tells his life story, of coming to terms with a difficult childhood and a journey to fulfilling his true potential.

John started working with an adult literacy tutor at Logan Central Library in 2018, to help him write his story. It’s been worth it.

‘My first glance at a copy of my book made me feel overjoyed,’ John says.

‘It feels amazing.’

You can find out more about adult literacy services offered at Logan Libraries by calling 3412 4459 or visiting online.