Read To Succeed and Linebaugh Library are hosting a Literacy Forum Monday February 6 in an effort to create a ongoing conversation about the issue in our community.

Held at Linebaugh Library from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., the forum will include a panel discussion between Shelly Stanley, Adult Literacy Coordinator for Read To Succeed, Carol Ghattas, Linebaugh Library, Stuart Bernstein, professor at MTSU, and Rachel Cornett, a phD student studying literacy and teacher at Wilson Elementary.

The forum, funded by a grant from Middle Tennessee Electric Customers Care, invites community members to participate in the discussion and offer input for improving literacy. Forty-four percent of adults in Rutherford County read at or below the average third grade level, and 10 percent read at or below the first grade level.

“This is a chance to give input on what you think should be done,” said Shelly Stanley. “Literacy is such a multi-faceted issue in Rutherford County. We need collaboration between all kinds of people to make change.”

The forum is free for all participants. Refreshments and door prizes will be provided.

For more information on the forum and literacy in Rutherford County, call 615-738-READ or visit