| There is nationwide public alarm among all stakeholders on the topic of reading. Legislators, parents, educators, businessmen, and community members have made it a priority to improve student success in reading. When students learn to read, academic success increases, as well as access to college, and earning power.; The purposes of the study were to (a) review current community-based reading programs, (b) complete an in-depth analysis of 12 such programs, and (c) identify characteristics and processes related to implementation and maintenance of effective programs. There was a focus on unusual or unique practices, benefits to a school district, and sustainability factors.; Three research questions were addressed in the study: (1) What are the elements of planning, implementation, and evaluation that are common to and unique among community reading programs? (2) How do school districts benefit? (3) What methods can be used to sustain, or institutionalize, effective community reading programs?; The community-based reading programs selected for the in-depth interviews reflect a time frame as early as 1985, with the majority starting in the early to mid-90s. In all 12 programs the primary interviewee reported that the person who originally conceived the community-based reading program had been an elected official, a school official, or a person affiliated with a public library.; The stated purpose of all members was to plan and implement a community-based reading program. The written plans varied in depth and extensiveness. Some of the plans were composed of general events and activities. Other plans included strategic analysis with benchmark assessments.; When reviewing approaches to evaluation, the researcher found a wide range of perspectives. Some community-based reading programs were designed to be informal, with participation as a main goal. Other programs did include formal evaluations. Tutorial programs measured growth of students and gains in tutors' knowledge about strategies.; There are 10 basic recommendations that have the potential of maximizing the efforts of community-based reading programs. Future related research could include technology and specific strategies for English learners. In conclusion, one of the greatest benefits to a school district is the shared accountability for students learning to read. |
