Youth Literacy

Funded by the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund

Helping children succeed by supporting their literacy needs!

Reading Pals has been rebranded!

What is the Youth Literacy Program?
(formerly Reading Pals)

Red Deer Public Library and Red Deer Firefighters Children's Charity's Youth Literacy Program is for students in Grades 1-12, who need to improve their literacy skills, comprehension and vocabulary. The purpose of Youth Literacy is to provide free, direct help in a fun and supportive environment. The program strives to offer sustainable and long term support for families, as well as greater opportunities for volunteers in the community.

For those in Grades 1-5, the focus will be on building skills, confidence and a love of reading. English learners in Grades 6-12 will have a more academic focus to gain the necessary vocabulary and comprehension skills for success in school. Youth Literacy hopes to offer both English and French tutoring, though that will be dependent on volunteer interest.

Youth Literacy will run during the school year beginning in mid Fall 2023, with a three month commitment. Learners will be paired with a volunteer and meet once a week. The family and volunteer tutor will select their preferred library branch and time for their session. (Note: French tutoring will only be available at Timberlands Branch).

Volunteer tutors are required to be 16+.

Learners must be referred by a teacher to participate in the Youth Literacy Program.

For more information, please email: youthlit@rdpl.org

Thank you to the Red Deer Firefighters’ Children's Charities, Government of Canada's Community Recovery Fund and private donations for their continued support.

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Upcoming Events

volunteer opportunities

In only 1 hour per week, you can help foster a love of learning!

We are now seeking volunteers (ages 16+) for the new Youth Literacy program!

To apply for this volunteer opportunity, please head over to the Better Impact volunteer database using the links below. You can also download the free mobile app, opens a new window to apply and manage your volunteering.

Volunteering: Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I volunteer?

There are so many great reasons to volunteer for this essential literacy program! You will:

Serve as a role model to children in the community.
Work with children to improve their literacy skills and boost their confidence, thereby contributing to the improvement of literacy in the community.
Foster an enthusiasm for learning in the minds of young students.
Acquire important skills and volunteer experience to enhance your resume.

Volunteer Qualifications

Additional Requirements

How do I volunteer?

To apply as a Youth Literacy Program Volunteer, use the Better Impact volunteer database by following the links below. You can also download the free mobile app, opens a new window to apply and manage your volunteering.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Phone: 403-346-4576 ext. 8524
Email: youthlit@rdpl.org
Visit: Red Deer Public Library Dawe Branch, 56 Holt St. (in the G.H. Dawe Centre)

Set your child up for success!

Get access to everything that the library has to offer! Free for all Red Deer residents.

Get a Library Card!

Homework Help & Learning Tools

Fountas & Pinnell Booklists

Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient is an organizational system using A-Z+ to assist with guided reading for children. The goal of F&P is to support reading development with established levels of materials to ensure the success of students. Click on the letters below for leveled booklists with Red Deer Public Library items. These lists are meant to be a guide to assist families with selecting materials and understanding the differences in content.