York Literacy Institute

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

Get InvolvedDonate

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 Education 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

Buck A Book 2025 celebration at Rev’s Game

The Buck A Book® Reading Program 2025 celebrated its 33rd year at a recognition event before the York Revolution game on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Many excited Buck A Book participants, including students, their families, and program sponsors, took part in a field walk...
Kristen Wilson

YLI welcomes new Director of Development

Kristen Wilson joins York Literacy Institute (YLI) as our new Director of Development.   Originally from Rhode Island, Kristen earned her undergraduate degree in Communications from Penn State. After college, she returned home, completed a Master’s in Early Childhood...

Early Bird Tickets are available for our Fall Fundraiser

Planning is in progress for our annual Fall Fundraiser and this year it is SUPERPOWERED! HEROES AND VILLAINS - a evening of philanthropy and fun will take place at MARKETVIEW ARTS in Downtown York on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 from 6-8:30 p.m.  Costumes are encouraged but...

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.