Local man hits 100 hours of reading with Literacy Lubbock

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - One Lubbock man is proving it’s never too late to keep learning.

Servennia Wyatt joined Literacy Lubbock in February, meeting twice a week with volunteer tutor Beth Gilliams at the Mahon Library.

At 66 years old, he’s working on his reading and writing skills, and says the progress has been life-changing.

“I learn how to read about four or five books and finish it,” Wyatt said. “Makes me feel good.”

What started as lessons quickly grew into a friendship Wyatt says. Gilliams has been more than just a teacher, she’s been a friend.

“I think she’s a good teacher but I didn’t think she’ll be a teacher and a good friend at the same time,” Wyatt said.

That dedication recently caught the attention of Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer, after a library security officer shared Wyatt’s story on social media.

The mayor sent Wyatt a letter honoring his milestone of logging more than 100 hours of studying.

“There is nothing quite like seeing the pride of real accomplishment, and that’s what I saw on Servennia Wyatt’s face. My mayor’s hat is off to Literacy Lubbock for their commitment to helping give the priceless gift of literacy to our citizens,” Mayor McBrayer said.

For Servennia, this meant everything. And it’s only motivated him to keep going.

“I believe if I can do it, they can too. All you have to do is want to learn and do it and stand up and finish it.”

What started with getting his very first library card, to children’s books, then Texas history, Servennia says every page brings him closer to his dream: to read independently and even some day take on computers.

To learn more about Literacy Lubbock and their impact on the community, visit their website.