The ESLC provides adults over the age of 18 with the very lowest literacy levels (less than 5th grade) classes and one-on-one tutoring through two programs: Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English to Speakers of other Languages (ESOL). All instruction is free and schedules are flexible. After successful completion of our programs, learners are able to move up to the GED and higher education programs offered by the Eastern Shore Community College.

The ESLC is a partner of  the Dollly Parton Imagination Library.  The Imagination Library provides specially selected age-appropriate books to registered children ages birth to age 5 residing in Accomack and Northapton counties at no charge to the families.    

The Eastern Shore Public Library Foundation was established in 2009 specifically to raise funds for the Eastern Shore of Virginia Library System. In 2015, the Foundation committed to raising the funds to establish a new regional library and heritage center, which documents the unique history and culture of Virginia's Eastern Shore. The Foundation raised $4,950,000 of the $5,300,000 needed to complete the new Regional Public Library at 23414 Bennett Street in Parksley. The new Regional Library opened in August 2023. 

After completion of the new facility, the Foundation continues to raise funds for the needs of the Eastern Shore Libary system consisting of the Regional Public Library in Parksley, the Cape Charles Memorial Library, the Chincoteage Island Library, and the Northampton Free Library in Nassawadox