Literacy Network

For over 50 years, Literacy Network has been providing free education programs to adults in Dane County. Located at 701 Dane Street and 835 W Badger Road in Madison, the organization supports over 1,700 students annually through classes and personalized tutoring, helping individuals achieve their goals. Their programs focus on English language communication, high school completion, and obtaining U.S. citizenship.

A Diverse Community of Learners

Students at Literacy Network come from over 80 countries and speak more than 60 languages. Many aspire to advance their careers, earn diplomas, support their children’s education, and deepen their civic engagement. In 2025, Literacy Network celebrated a record milestone: 71 students successfully passed the test to become U.S. citizens.

Over 50 Years of Community Impact

Literacy Network began in 1974 as a volunteer-run adult literacy tutoring program, serving 70 individuals in its first year. Over the years, the organization has grown exponentially, now serving more than 1,700 students with a dedicated staff of 30, alongside over 400 volunteers. While Literacy Network has expanded, its mission remains the same: to help students achieve their personal goals by building language and literacy skills through free programs.

Addressing Current Challenges

In 2025, Literacy Network faced significant challenges that threatened its ability to serve students effectively. Many learners are immigrants or refugees who have experienced fear and instability. This year, the federal government paused resettlement efforts, affecting new refugee students who depend on English language programs.

Despite these challenges, Literacy Network remains committed to providing essential English language services for refugees during their first five years in Dane County, although it faces reduced funding. The organization has welcomed refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, the Congo, Ukraine, and many other countries, emphasizing the need for continued support in its programs.

Additionally, the termination of federal funding for the citizenship program in March 2025 has created urgency for many lawful permanent residents to secure their citizenship rights. With the number of eligible candidates increasing and evolving citizenship test requirements, the need for Literacy Network’s programming has become even more vital.

Thanks to the generous support of the community and the resilience of its students, Literacy Network has continued to see strong participation, with many students achieving their goals despite these challenges.

Services Designed for Success

The majority of students at Literacy Network participate in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program, which has seen growing demand as the number of immigrants and refugees in Dane County increases.

In addition, many young adults are entering the workforce without essential skills. Literacy Network offers various programs for English speakers, including high school completion.

The organization's free programs include: 

• English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: 
  • Group ESL classes at six levels 
  • Community ESL classes at schools, libraries, and community centers 
  • Structured ESL tutoring with volunteer tutors Workplace ESL classes that help employees build language skills tailored to their positions on paid work time 
• U.S. Citizenship Preparation: 
  • Classes and tutoring to prepare for the citizenship test 
• Basic Literacy Tutoring:  
  • Reading, writing, math, and digital literacy for native English speakers  
• High School Completion Programs: 
  • Individualized instruction for GED tests in English or Spanish 
  • One-on-one weekly tutoring for the GED or a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED)
  • Tutoring in high school completion classes at Madison College

Each semester, Literacy Network offers over 50 classes at its location and community partner sites, including schools, libraries, and online. The outcomes of these programs include:

• Improved communication between parents and teachers
• New, family-sustaining jobs, diploma attainment, and college graduations
• Increased civic engagement as new citizens participate in voting
• Greater family stability and confidence

Students Leading the Way

At Literacy Network, students are central to the organization’s mission. In a 2025 survey, 98% of students indicated they would recommend Literacy Network to a friend, highlighting the positive impact of its programs.

The Student Services Department maintains ongoing communication with learners, providing personalized support throughout the enrollment process. Tutors work one-on-one with students, receiving training and lesson plans to ensure high-quality instruction. Each tutor commits to volunteering two hours per week following personalized lesson plans prepared weekly by a paid intern. Literacy Network strives to meet students’ needs, such as offering free laptops for online learning and connecting them with community resources.

In 2025, Literacy Network expanded its reach by acquiring Omega School, enhancing its high school completion program and creating more pathways for students in response to growing demand.

Students also play an active role in shaping programs through surveys, needs assessments, and regular communication. The Student Leadership Council (SLC), comprised of up to 18 students from diverse backgrounds, meets monthly to discuss programming and organizational growth. One SLC member joined the Board of Directors in 2025, sharing how her involvement has provided her with “hope, belonging, and opportunity.”

Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead

Literacy Network hosts two major annual events that invite the community to connect with its mission and celebrate student successes. 

• Reading Between the Wines: Scheduled for April 28, 2026, this event highlights student accomplishments and honors the supporters who make them possible. A social hour of wine tasting and food from student-owned restaurants will be followed by a panel discussion with student speakers hosted by nationally recognized journalist Jackie Judd. This event also included an online auction in the weeks prior to the gathering and a commemorative book featuring student writing. Registration opens in March. 
• Growing Through Literacy: This free lunchtime gathering takes place on September 29, 2026, bringing together students, staff, and supporters to share stories about Literacy Network’s impact across Dane County. It’s an opportunity for the community to meet students, learn about the organization’s mission, and see firsthand how literacy transforms lives. Registration opens in August 2026.

Looking ahead, Literacy Network remains committed to expanding its programs to meet the growing demand for free adult education in Dane County. The organization’s work is a powerful reminder that when adults gain stronger literacy and language skills, entire families and communities thrive.

To hear directly from students and supporters, check out this video, featured at Madison Community Foundation’s Madison Gives event: Click here to view.

For those interested in learning more, getting involved, or supporting Literacy Network's mission, visit litnetwork.org to explore volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and ways to give.