Choose texts as well as other learning materials that present the topic in a way that engages clients. You can use individual desks or tables or create a less formal learning environment that makes clients feel more at ease, such as placing chairs together with book holders on either side of the chairs. You may also want bulletin boards near or in each station where you can add tips or advice.
Create an overall environment that makes clients comfortable. Many adults hesitate to seek out help in acquiring better literacy because of the stigma attached to not being able to read as an adult. It is therefore vital that you develop a literacy center with work stations that promote the idea that self-improvement at any age is a positive step and one that often takes courage to undertake.
Make posters in a graphics program that present positive images of everyday people working with instructors to develop literacy skills. A professional level program such as Photoshop or GIMP (freeware) will allow you to create designs using graphics, photos and adding text. Use a sentence on your posters such as "Reading Opens Doors."
Develop other images for posters that include people from various backgrounds. This approach ensures that your clients can identify with someone in a poster who is working to improve his or her reading and writing skills. For example, include an image of a homemaker that wants to be able to help her child with his homework, a person in his twenties who wants to improve his chances at getting a good job or a senior citizen who wants to spend time reading during retirement.