A Decades-Long Story
of Shared Success
Celebrate 50 years of
building brighter futures,
one student at a time
1974
THE BEGINNING
After years of preparatory work, Raphael “Ray” Wagner and a team of deeply committed volunteers incorporate Madison Literacy Council as a not-for-profit organization. In its first year, the organization hopes to serve 70 people through one-on-one tutoring.
1979
PARTNERSHIP WITH UNITED WAY
Madison Literacy Council becomes a member agency of United Way of Dane County. This strong relationship continues to this day.
1984
THE FIRST DECADE OF IMPACT
With its 10th anniversary, Madison Literacy Council celebrates having provided 94 tutor training workshops and served more than 1,000 students.
1992
CANTERBURY RUN/WALK
Harvey and Trudy Barash, owners of Canterbury Booksellers, begin the annual run/walk. This is the organization’s major fundraising event for 20 years. 525 walkers and runners participate in the first year.
1997
INTRODUCTION OF GROUP CLASSES
Group ESL classes are offered for the first time, in addition to one-on-one tutoring. This gives students more opportunities to create networks of support and learning among themselves.
2003
START OF THE CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM
The citizenship program begins in order to help students with the goal of passing the U.S. citizenship test.
2004
BEGINNING OF COMMUNITY ENGLISH
The Community English (originally known as Family Literacy) program begins, with a focus on building students’ language skills so that they can engage in their family’s education, advocate for their family’s needs, and participate in the community. It is now one of Literacy Network’s largest programs.
2006
NAME CHANGE
Students, volunteers, donors, and staff collaborate to rename the organization “Literacy Network” to reflect the interconnectedness of everyone involved in literacy education.
2009
INCREASED INCORPORATION OF TECHNOLOGY
Literacy Network adds a mobile learning lab of 15 refurbished computers to begin to better integrate technology into programs. This effort continues with the installation of a dedicated computer lab in our new building in 2016. Today, we offer a student computer loan library with laptops and hotspots available for student use, as well as programming to support students in building computer skills.
2016
A NEW HOME WITH INCREASED STUDENT SUPPORT
After a two-year capital campaign, Literacy Network moves into its current home at 701 Dane St. The Student Services department is also developed to offer individualized support to every participant. This decreases barriers to participation and increases student retention.
2017
PROGRAMMING FOR HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION
Literacy Network’s GED and HSED program begins, to support students with the goal of earning their high school diplomas.
2020
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC
With the onset of the pandemic, Literacy Network quickly initiates online programming along with additional student support and COVID education, including vaccination clinics.
2023
UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND FOR PROGRAMS
Literacy Network serves its most students ever, with 1,445 Dane County adults participating in programs throughout the year.
2024
50 YEARS OF LITERACY NETWORK
During its 50th year, Literacy Network expands its space and is on track to surpass last year’s record number of students.
Chapters in Literacy Network's History
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Launching a legacy of literacy education started with one couple’s vision.
EVOLUTION OF PROGRAMMING
As student needs and best practices changed, the programs progressed too.
ON THE MOVE
Over the years, the organization’s journey has included various buildings and name changes.
BUILDING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Working collaboratively with others accomplishes shared missions.
SUSTAINING THE MISSION THROUGH FUNDRAISING
From the 1970s days of garage sales to current student-centered events, fundraisers have raised support and awareness.
HIGHLIGHTING THE STUDENT POPULATION
Responsive programming helps diverse students form connections, build skills, and reach goals.
Watch the 50 Faces of Literacy Network
As Literacy Network marks its 50th anniversary, we're sharing a special campaign to showcase the heart and soul of our organization: The 50 Faces of Literacy Network! These short videos will introduce you to 50 inspiring individuals who have been touched by Literacy Network - current and past students, volunteers, staff, and other supporters. Through their stories, you'll witness firsthand the transformative power of literacy and the lasting impact Literacy Network has on our community. Get ready to be inspired!
Follow us on social media to see all 50 faces as we share them!
What's Next for Literacy Network?
CITIZENSHIP PREPARATION
Enhancing our collaboration with Centro Hispano to support more people in applying for citizenship
HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION
Deepening partnerships to serve more Dane County adults with the goal of a GED or HSED
ESL CLASSES AND TUTORING
Adding classes and tutoring sessions to meet the high demand for programs
DIGITAL LITERACY
Upgrading on-site technology for students to build their skills with the support of programs
Help Write Our Next Chapter
Join the community building brighter futures — one student at a time!
BECOME A DONOR
Support our mission with recurring donations
WITNESS LASTING CHANGE
Experience the positive impact literacy makes
Betsy Abramson and David Seligman
Loyal donors and planned givers
“Our grandparents were immigrants to America in the early 1900s and they thrived and succeeded in their pursuit of the American dream because someone helped them learn English. Now it is our turn to pay that forward.”