The Literacy Center is a leader in community-based adult literacy education built on innovative, cost-effective instructional services that ensure excellence in student outcomes. Since 1977, more than 40,000 adults from nearly every country in the world have sought our expertise and help. We firmly believe that adult education and training can positively transform lives by opening the door to limitless opportunities.
About The Literacy Center
Our Mission
Through innovative programming, The Literacy Center delivers high-quality instruction, training, and support for adults who are experiencing language, education, and employment barriers.
Our Vision
All adults have access to the training and education that allows them to achieve their potential to:
• Enrich individual and family life
• Enhance the community
• Participate in civic life
• Strengthen the economy
Our Values
• Education
• Equity
• Excellence
• Empowerment
• Community
•Innovation
Our Accomplishments
• Over 1,500 adults served last fiscal year.
• 412 adults participated in our new Digital Literacy Program.
• 167 job seekers attended our Community & Career Fair.
Our History
1977
Established by a small group of Allentown residents concerned with the plight of area residents who were being held back in life due to illiteracy.
Started in a small, donated space and with seed monies from the Allentown Area Lutheran Synod.
The center was originally known as The Allentown Literacy Council.
1984
The Literacy Council established itself as an independent, not-for-profit organization.
2008
Changed name to The Literacy Center, offering classes in both English as a Second Language (ESL) and High School Equivalency (GED).
2016
Moved into larger space at 1132 Hamilton Street.
New Say YES (Young Empowered Students) to Success Program provides GED instruction designed specifically for young adults.
2017
In recognition of The Literacy Center’s 40th Anniversary, a new logo is introduced.
2019
New Workforce Development Programs launched in Digital Literacy, Administrative Professional Training, and Career Search & Preparation. Job seekers can also receive individual career counseling and attend our annual career fair and employer hiring events
New College Access Program provides individual counseling for students interested in post-secondary education and hosts college information sessions for students.
Introduction of Student Support Services that help students address issues outside of the classroom, which include barrier counseling, referrals to partner organizations, and information sessions on community resources.
2020
Successfully transitioned all programs and services online during pandemic lockdown, retaining 95% of students.
Created and implemented Work From Home (WFH) Certification program that helped hundreds of community members and nonprofit staffers work remotely during pandemic.
2022
The Literacy Center & First Commonwealth Federal Credit Union win Volunteer Challenge
2024
Building space destroyed by a 3-alarm fire that started in neighboring building. In-person classes temporarily moved to DeSales University.
2025
First State of the Organization Address delivered.
New Community Advisory Board announced with co-chairs State Rep. Peter Schweyer and Brittany Mako.