Seniors learning how to use computers, recent immigrants learning English, people working toward their GEDs, and the people who take the time to help them gathered at the Wareham Free Library on Monday for Tutor and Student Recognition Night.

Two people earned their GEDs, but among the crowd that gathered were others who are on track to earning their GEDs and working toward other goals through the library's Reading Partners program.

"Reading Partners tries to help people reach their educational goals, whether it's learning to read better, learning to speak English, or studying for the GED," said Director of the program Deena Kinsky.

Rebecca Evers graduated with her GED after studying for five years. She dropped out of school to take care of her daughter. She said she wanted to earn her GED in order to be "better able to support her, go out and get a better job."

Evers plans to study massage therapy next.

Volunteer Linda Rinta said that the GED test is more thorough than some people may think, because in high school a person may be able to slide on some subjects if they're doing well in others.

"Anybody who thinks they can test out of high school would be in for a shock," she said.

English language learner Galina Sheebina, a 75-year-old woman who hails from Russia, will be taking her citizenship test in June. On a piece of lined paper, in neat handwriting, she describes her experiences in Wareham -- such as joining the senior bicycle club, going to the Gleason Family YMCA, and participating in various charity runs and walks.

"I would like to become a good citizen," she wrote. "I study English very hard."

Need help studying for the GED? Want to learn more about computers? For more information about Reading Partners, e-mail readingpartners@gmail.com.