A study of literacy mediation practices in a rural community

This study explores the role of adults who help other adults with reading and writing, known as literacy mediators. The study is based in a small rural town. As the world becomes more technically and textually complex, people with low literacy reach out to friends, neighbours and workmates to help with difficult texts. The study identifies that community organisations such as libraries and neighbourhood houses play an important role in helping marginalised people with low literacy. It also identifies that people in service centres, motivated by feelings of care and compassion, frequently help others with reading and writing.