Adult Literacy at Nashville Public Library plays a vital role in supporting Davidson County’s adult education community. The program brings together adult learners and the organizations that support them, providing access to information, educational technologies, shared resources, and professional development. Through collaboration and coordination, NPL strengthens a network of providers working to create greater opportunities for adults across Davidson County.
This work is led by people like Jamil Sameen, Adult Literacy Program Supervisor, whose personal and professional experiences shape NPL’s approach to adult literacy. Having navigated learning English and moving to the United States, Jamil understands firsthand how learning a new language can impact adult learners. “When you help someone learn English, you are also helping them access education and employment,” Jamil said.
Rather than offering services directly, Adult Literacy at NPL partners with nearly 60 nonprofit and community-based organizations that provide programs including English language classes, high school equivalency preparation, digital skills training, and career readiness. Jamil explained the philosophy behind NPL’s model: “The Library supports agencies offering adult literacy services rather than providing them directly. We don’t want to compete with nonprofit agencies; instead, we help them do their work better, giving them the training, resources, and tools they need to deliver high-quality programs to the community.” Support includes professional development for educators, shared learning spaces, mobile technology labs, multilingual materials, and access to tools like LinkedIn Learning, Transparent Language, and high school equivalency test preparation software.
In 2025, this collaborative approach continued to make a measurable impact. All partner agencies reported expanding their professional knowledge through NPL programs, and 92% said they feel more connected to the local adult education community. Among adult learners, 95% reported improved computer skills, and 100% said NPL offers helpful and relevant resources to help meet their goals.
As demand for adult literacy services increases, NPL is working to expand access. Nearly 1,400 people in Davidson County are currently waiting to enroll in English classes. In response, NPL’s Adult Literacy program was recently awarded a two-year, $450,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. Combined with partnerships with local organizations and support from people like you, this funding provides free English classes at 6 NPL locations.
Adult Literacy at NPL also collaborates closely with the GOAL Collective, Nashville’s systems-building effort focused on adult education. GOAL Collective partners share data, identify service gaps, and advocate for solutions that strengthen the entire adult education ecosystem. Through these strong partnerships and continued investment from our community, Nashville Public Library continues to expand pathways to literacy and opportunity for thousands of adults across Davidson County.