Free Adult Literacy Classes in Tucson
Reading, writing, English and GED classes for adults, taught one-to-one or in small groups at libraries across the city. No fees, no tests to get in, and no one else needs to know.
Classes For Adults, At Your Pace
Every class is free. Most run at libraries and community centers, days and evenings.
Started At One Library Table In 1992
Pagewell began with four volunteer tutors and a reading table at a downtown branch library. More than thirty years later we teach almost two thousand adults a year at a dozen sites across Pima County. The work is the same as it was on day one: meet each learner privately, start where they are, and keep going until they reach the goal they came in with — a job form, a license, a GED, a letter home.
- Privatefirst meeting
- Goalsset by learners
- Trainedvolunteers
- Free,always
Real Goals, Not Grades
Read To Their Kids
The most common goal we hear — and one of the first most learners reach.
Get Or Keep A Job
Applications, safety manuals, work email and the reading a promotion asks for.
Pass A Test
The GED, a driver's license exam or the citizenship interview.
Handle Life On Paper
Medical forms, leases, bills and letters from school, without asking anyone for help.
Your First Month
Call Or Send A Note
Tell us a little about what you'd like to learn. Everything you share stays private.
A Private Meeting
A friendly, unhurried conversation with our staff to find your starting point. No test, no pass or fail.
Your Tutor Or Class
We match you with a tutor or a small class near you, at a time that fits work and family.
Check-Ins
Every few months we look at your goal together and plan the next step.
What Every Learner Gets
No fees for anything below — ever.
Books To Keep
Workbooks and reading books that go home with you.
A Private Space
A quiet room or table, away from the busy parts of the library.
Flexible Times
Morning, evening and Saturday sessions around work and family.
Childcare On Family Nights
Kids read with you or play nearby with a volunteer.
Become A Reading Tutor
You don't need a teaching degree — only patience, a steady two hours a week, and a year to give. We train every tutor in ten hours of practical sessions, supply the books and lesson plans, and stay in touch the whole way. Most tutors meet their learner at a library near home.
- ✓Two hours a week, one year
- ✓Ten hours of training, materials provided
- ✓Spanish speakers especially needed
In Their Own Words
For thirty years I pretended I forgot my glasses. My tutor never made me feel small. Last spring I read a bedtime story to my granddaughter, start to finish.
The evening English class fit around my shifts. Now I talk to my kids' teachers myself, and I passed my driving test in English.
I tutor one man on Tuesday evenings. The training was thorough, the staff check in, and watching him read a job application on his own was one of the best days of my year.
Twelve Places To Learn
Branch Libraries
Quiet study rooms at eight library branches, days and evenings.
Community Centers
Evening English classes in South Tucson, Flowing Wells and Marana.
Partner Schools
Family literacy nights at elementary schools, with childcare and dinner.
Books, Training And A Place To Learn
Classes are free because donors cover books, tutor training and space. Send us a note to give once or monthly, or to sponsor a class — we'll reply with a secure giving link.
Questions We're Often Asked
Is it really free?
Yes. Every class, book and tutoring session is free for learners.
Will anyone find out I'm taking classes?
Not from us. Your information stays private, and tutors meet you in a quiet space.
Do you teach in Spanish?
Our English classes are taught in English, and many of our tutors and staff also speak Spanish, so first meetings can happen in either language.
Do I need to take a test to start?
No. The first meeting is a conversation, not an exam. It helps us find the right starting point.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, generally — Pagewell is a registered 501(c)(3), so gifts are deductible as the law allows. Ask us and we'll send a receipt for your records.
Start With A Private Conversation
Want to learn, tutor or give? Send a note or call, and our staff will get back to you within two business days.
- Visit us340 N Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701
- Call us(520) 555-0139
- Email uslearn@pagewellliteracy.org
- Opening hoursMon – Thu: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Fri: Closed, Sat: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Sun: Closed