English Language Learning
About
Boston Public Library offers free classes for adult English learners (18 years and older) living in Massachusetts. To learn more, speak to a teacher during an Information Session:
- Monday | 2:00 pm-2:30 pm | Mattapan Branch
- Tuesday | 3:00 pm-4:00 pm | Central Library | Mezzanine Conference Room 1
- Wednesday | 12:00 pm-12:30 pm | Shaw-Roxbury Branch
- Wednesday | 12:30 pm-1:00 pm | Grove Hall Branch
- Wednesday| 1:30 pm-2:00 pm | West End Branch
- Friday | 10:00 am-10:30 am | Roslindale Branch
- Friday| 11:00 pm-11:30 pm | Chinatown Branch
You can also contact staff at literacyservices@bpl.org or 617.859.2446.
ESOL Classes
Our structured grammar classes are divided into four levels and focus on learning the foundations of English. Registration and assessment with an instructor are required to attend grammar classes.
To register for a grammar class during our summer session (June 15-August 14), please complete our interest form and speak to one of our instructors during an Information Session. For the current Information Session schedule, visit our calendar.
This is a class for students with little to no English skills. Students will learn the basics of English, including how to give personal information, talk about likes and dislikes, describe everyday activities, use present and past tense, and more!
ESOL Conversation Groups
Conversation groups offer an informal and friendly group setting where new English learners can practice their speaking skills. Groups are led by a volunteer, native English speaker and are suitable for students with basic English-speaking skills. Conversation Groups are held both virtually and in-person. Many of the in-person groups do not require registration. For the current conversation group schedule, please visit our calendar.
Reading Classes
Reading practice classes are offered to beginner and intermediate level students. For the current class schedule and registration instructions, please email literacyservices@bpl.org or call 617.859.2446.
Volunteer to Help People Learn English
Boston Public Library offers several opportunities for adults interested in volunteering with our ESOL community. Volunteers can work with either adult ESOL learners or adults who are in need of basic reading and writing skills to help them achieve their individual life goals. Volunteers can choose to work with smaller groups (2-6 students) or larger groups (up to 25 students) looking to improve their conversational English. Other volunteers can work one-on-one with an individual helping them to improve basic literacy skills, employment preparation, or test preparation.
For more information about volunteering, please email volunteer@bpl.org or call 617.859.2304.
