Pleasant Grove's new Literacy Center director, Matt Hiatt, is not a stranger to helping young people. He brings more than a decade of experience to the center, having worked in education for 12 years.

The director of special education at Provo School District's Independence High School, Hiatt accepted the Literacy Center position in November. Hiatt has experience as a special education teacher, working with students who have special needs and learning disabilities.

As director of the literacy center, he coordinates tutors to work one-on-one with students who need help with reading and comprehension skills. He currently oversees 16 volunteer tutors and 21 students. He also tutors some of the students himself.

"Most are elementary-age, but we do a wide range. I'm working with a student in junior high and one in high school right now," Hiatt said. Using books with activities, phonics programs and other programs that help the speed and articulation of reading, the goal is to get the students reading on grade level.

"The greatest hope is to help students gain confidence in themselves and not be intimidated by books. I want them to become lifelong readers," Hiatt said.

Hiatt said he hopes to help students when they are young before they reach the teen years.

"I was interested to see if I could make a difference, hopefully, help students turn the tide before it gets too late," he said. "That early intervention might possibly change their lives."

The center, which is located in the loft of the city's library, has been around for approximately 15 years, according to April Harrison, library director. Freeman Anderson, former City Council member, originally approached Harrison about the possibility of adding a literacy center to the library. The center is funded through Pleasant Grove's general fund.

"The council felt it was important," Harrison said.

"We're fortunate to have [Hiatt] as part of our staff. He brings such qualifications and experience to the position," Harrison said. "He has brought in new programs, ideas and things that have worked in his profession."

Hiatt is looking for more volunteers to tutor students one to two hours each week. Interested people should inquire at the library. If parents would like their children tutored at the Pleasant Grove Literacy Center, they can also contact the library at 30 E. Center St. or (801) 785-3950.