A $30 million New Mexico project aimed at boosting literacy for people of all ages is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
KOB 4 TV reports that the 30,000-square-foot facility to be built in Albuquerque is aimed at improving literacy rates for all people in New Mexico, especially adults. It will have room for up to 500 students at a time, state-of-the-art technology and indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
State lawmakers approved funds for the literacy center, set to be built next to the main University of New Mexico campus.
The most recent data from the National Institute of Education Sciences ranks New Mexico second-to-last among states for adult literacy. The Institute groups reading skills into six different levels and, according to their report, 29% of New Mexican adults are only at or below level one skills.
State education leaders say the new facility will give New Mexicans a place to improve those skills for free.
“Adults who need any sort of literacy or reading support could come and receive those supports at the Literacy Center,” said Marianna Padilla, cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Public Education Department.
The new facility is also expected to offer resources for teachers to help strengthen how they teach students how to read.
