The Literacy Clinic has been in existence for over forty years. The educational mission is to provide high quality practicum experiences for students who are pursuing graduate studies in Reading. Courses leading to a Reading Teacher Endorsement and the Type 10. K-12 Reading Specialist Certification through the Illinois State Board of Education are also integral parts of the Literacy Clinic's operation.
The founder of the Literacy Clinic was Eugene B. Grant who served as director for 15 years until his retirement in 1973. Dr. Grant passed away in 1988. Subsequent directors included Jane L. Davidson, James H. Moss, Earl Hanson, Thomas E. Wheat, Jerry L. Johns and Laurie Elish-Piper.