Wichita Journalism Collaborative

Can you be a "middle" person for someone looking to build their skills and tell them about the Wichita Public Library's "Reading Basics for Adults" course on Sept. 21? Here's why we're asking: “It’s really difficult to connect with those people with a library ... so if we can reach those people who are that middle person in between those who are very literate and those who are illiterate or functionally illiterate, they can help us help them,” said Steven Kelly, adult literacy manager.

Frustrated. Mad. Confused. Those were some of the reactions at our kickfoff for "Beyond Words: Wichita's Reading Crisis" as staff from the Phillips Fundamental Learning Center and the Wichita Public Library walked us through exercises to help us understand what life is like for people who struggle with reading and everyday tasks. Thank you to our facilitators and everyone who joined us as we work to learn more about adult literacy and solutions. From our partner KSN TV https://www.ksn.com/news/local/1-in-5-wichita-residents-are-functionally-illiterate-new-initiative-aims-to-change-that/

1 in 5 Wichita residents are functionally illiterate, new initiative aims to change that “The goal for today is to bring awareness so that people who come can reach out to their community and figure out, okay, who are the people in my community who do need help reading?”

Our adult literacy initiative kicks off tonight at 6 p.m. Join us to learn about the challenges faced by adults who struggle to read. Simulations will be facilitated by Phillips Fundamental Learning Center and the Wichita Public Library. Event is at the Advanced Learning Center, 711 W. 2nd St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. We hope to see you! Registration is encouraged but not required. https://zfrmz.com/GMwjD4HhO6q050iajCku

NexStep Alliance offers people in our community an opportunity to change their futures, unlocking better jobs, higher incomes, and more! As we embark on , our adult literacy focus, we are glad to see this expansion.

What does it feel like to struggle to read? WJC’s Sept. 17 event includes simulations to show you.

For its 2026-27 season, Wichita Grand Opera is highlighting works that deploy beautiful music to tell intensely dramatic stories. Read more from our partner, The SHOUT ⬇

Nearly 20% of adults in Kansas struggle with reading. What does this mean for them, as well as for Wichita and the state? KMUW reporter Anavi Prakash explores the implications of this issue as we launch our new initiative, "Beyond Words: Wichita's Reading Crisis."

Our partner The SHOUT scored an interview with the creator of the jingle of the summer 🎵 about Seneca Street Liquor.