ESL

The Milford Town Library offers several options for learning English! Choose from group learning, self-led learning, or online discussion via our private Facebook page. A list of other ESL organizations is attached at the bottom of this page.

We also welcome those interested in volunteering to be an English as a Second Language (ESL) tutor, and will provide training.

Note: To translate any page of our website to your preferred language, scroll to the bottom of our website where you will find a drop-down "Select Language" menu. Click the "down arrow" of the menu to select your language.

Nota: Para traducir cualquier página de nuestro sitio web a su idioma preferido, desplácese hasta la parte inferior de nuestro sitio web donde encontrará un menú desplegable "Seleccionar idioma". Haga clic en la "flecha hacia abajo" del menú para seleccionar su idioma.

Nota: Para traduzir qualquer página do nosso site para o seu idioma preferido, vá até a parte inferior do nosso site, onde você encontrará um menu suspenso "Selecionar idioma". Clique na "seta para baixo" do menu para selecionar seu idioma.

Group Learning

Our group-based ESL Classes are offered throughout the year, and take place on the Lower Level of the Library, in the ESL Classroom.

ESL Calendar March 2024

 

Self-Led Learning

Learn English at your own pace with our English Lab! Visit the Information Desk at the Library to request one of our English Lab iPads. These are for in-library use only, and feature two interactive apps–Mango Languages and Transparent Language. You can set up your own account on either app (or both) so that you can keep track of your progress. We will also provide a set of headphones so that you can hear the English lessons as they are spoken.

The English Lab is FREE and available at the Library during our normal operating hours. When you sign up for the English Lab, we will ask for your name and your library card number. You MUST return the iPad and headphones to the Information Desk when you finish using the English Lab.

To sign up for an account on Mango Languages or Transparent Languages, click the logos below. Once you have registered using your library card, you may also use these services on your home computer, or download the apps for your mobile device! (To link your library card to the Mango app, visit their Link to Library instructions.)

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If you prefer to learn a language with physical materials, you can also browse our in-library collection of ESL and language learning books and audiobooks.

Questions? Ask for help at the Information Desk. We're happy to help you learn English!

Online Learning

To learn more English online and keep in touch outside of group classes, join our private Facebook group. This is a place for students and tutors to connect!

Become an ESL Tutor

Tutor training dates in 2024 to be announced!

Our mission is to provide trained volunteers for adult tutoring in English as a Second Language (ESL). If prospective students have educational needs beyond the scope of our program, we will refer them to other resources. We will maintain a comprehensive and diverse collection of literacy materials including audio-visual and printed materials available for circulation. We will train volunteers in tutoring techniques, sensitivity to literacy challenges in day to day life, and in the use of literacy materials for more effective results. We will match students with tutors and monitor progress.

ESL Tutor FAQ

Who are the students?

The students in our program come from countries such as Brazil, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Guatemala,  India,  Indonesia, Pakistan, Peru, Portugal, Russia, Serbia, Thailand, and Venezuela among others. Many are employed in low-wage service positions and proficiency in English is an important step in improving their lives.

Who are the tutoring volunteers?

Our volunteer tutors give generously of their time and talents to make our program possible. While many have teaching backgrounds or fluency in another language, neither is necessary to be an effective tutor. A desire to help others, patience and flexibility are equally important.

What time investment is necessary?

Tutor training is free and once completed, tutors are matched with a student(s) for an hour class per week at the library where a private tutoring room is available.

How does the program work?

We use a three-pronged approach to maximize our resources and results:

  1. One-on-one tutoring & small group instruction
  2. Group Drop-In Classes — Tuesday and Thursday evenings 7pm-8pm in the ESL Classroom
  3. Literacy Shelf – books, dictionaries, Cds, and DVDs for independent study, lesson planning for tutors.

The ESL program at the Milford Town Library is a proud affiliate of ProLiteracy Worldwide, (formerly Laubach Literacy and Literacy Volunteers of America) and use their training materials in conjunction with other literacy resources.

The program operates largely on the contributions of time and energy of its terrific volunteers, but also purchases materials and supplies through the library budget and through the generosity of private donors.

How do I sign up to be a volunteer?

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Anne Berard, ESL Coordinator at (508) 473-2145 (ext. 2) or email.

Do you have additional tutoring resources?

Tutor Resources - Assess Your Student

Tutor Resources - Helpful Websites