York Literacy Institute

Teaching literacy skills in English to empower adults for successful engagement in the home, workplace, and community

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Providing Adult Literacy Classes Since 1976

Individuals served

Countries represented

Annual Students in classes

Our Mission Has Expanded

Today, York Literacy Institute provides in-person and HyFlex classes, one-to-one tutoring, presentation & workshops, and a digital language lab within our Adult Reading, English as a Second Language (ESL) & Next Step Programs. In each program, the adult student is given standardized assessments, an educational plan, instructional placement, referrals to other human service agencies, and educational institutions, and consultation on literacy topics. In addition to onsite access to our YLI Library, students are offered special classes in computer basics instruction and presentations on health literacy, workplace literacy, and financial literacy topics.

York Literacy Institute’s Programs

Students in a classroom in the Adult Reading Program

Adult Reading Program

Assisting English-speaking adults (18 years or older) to improve reading, writing, spelling, math, computer, & study skills

English as a Second Language

Focuses on improving conversation skills which includes speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills

Next Step Programs

Offers YLI students and former students support services for workplace and career readiness

How to Get Involved

Become a Tutor

Volunteer Tutoring at YLI is a rewarding experience as you help YLI’s mission get accomplished

Join a Committee

Each committee works diligently to guide YLI and our programs into the future. If you have skills, experience, or education in any of these areas, we welcome your assistance

Donate

There are many ways in which you can donate and help support our mission at the York Literacy Institute

News & Events

Help Name the York Literacy Institute’s New Mascot!

We're kicking off Give Local York with a naming contest for our new book-shaped mascot but need your help! Between now and the end of Give Local York on Friday, May 2, you can cast a vote for your favorite name by making a $5 donation to York Literacy Institute....

Support York Literacy Institute During Give Local York 2025

We're excited to participate in York's 24-hour day of giving - GIVE LOCAL YORK - on MAY 1 & 2 from 9 pm -9 pm. York Literacy Institute is proud to be one of the over 300 participating non-profit organizations working to make York County a great place to live. If...

Transforming Lives: Reflections of a Volunteer Tutor

Alexis Stegemann's commitment to community service is deeply rooted in her life-long history of volunteering. Since 2016, she has been a dedicated tutor at the York Literacy Institute (YLI), where she provides educational support to adults preparing to take High...

Our History & Mission

How We Got Started

The mission began when a few community volunteers witnessed the need for adult literacy instruction in the York community. They attended workshops presented to learn the Laubach Method of teaching literacy skills and the groundwork was set.

The Journey Began

Incorporated in 1980, the mission continued as the number of learners and tutors grew. Volunteers met one-to-one with both English speaking illiterate or functionally illiterate adults and foreign-born individuals seeking to speak, read, and understand English.

The Future of Literacy in York County

Today, York Literacy Institute provides in-person and HyFlex classes, one-to-one tutoring, presentation & workshops, and a digital language lab within our Adult Reading, English as a Second Language (ESL) & Next Step Programs. In each program, the adult student is given standardized assessments, an educational plan, instructional placement, referrals to other human service agencies, and educational institutions, and consultation on literacy topics. In addition to onsite access to our YLI Library, students are offered special classes in computer basics instruction and presentations on health literacy, workplace literacy, and financial literacy topics.