Claudia Baranowski
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cbaranowski@stdl.org
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Learn English, improve your reading skills or prepare for the U.S. citizenship exam with resources available at the Library, including:
- English as a second language classes and book discussions
- Weekly conversation clubs
- Citizenship preparation courses
- A special collection of books, CDs and DVDs to help improve English skills
Do you need help with writing a letter or resume, completing an application or using Library learning tools? Fill out a Book a Librarian request to meet with our Literacy Coordinator.
English as a Second Language
We offer two free ESL class sessions every year, one in late winter/early spring and another in the fall. Each 12-week session begins with in-person testing and registration to determine placement. You must attend the first session to register; online and phone registration are not available. Classes must be taken as a block from the beginning of the session and cannot be started part-way through.
Intermediate ESL
Testing and registration for the spring 2019 class has ended. Please check back for information on future classes.
Reading 101
This session is for advanced students who have tested out of standard ESL courses.
Testing and registration for the spring 2019 class has ended. Please check back for information on future classes.
Conversation Clubs
We host free discussion groups for intermediate students who want to use and improve their English speaking skills.
Space is limited; email Claudia Baranowski at cbaranowski@stdl.org if you are interested in attending.
ESL Book Discussions
Join a book discussion with other English-language learners. Our next discussion will be at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at our Hoffman Estates Branch. We'll be reading The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard Morais.
Online Tools for Learning English
Mango Languages
Take lessons in more than 70 different languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Korean.
Pronunciator
Learn a new language by creating a personalized course to fit your needs.
Brainfuse HelpNow
Tutors are available from 2 - 9 p.m. every day with live homework help for math, science, English, social studies and adult learning. Take ACT, SAT, AP, GED, TOEFL and U.S. citizenship practice tests.
English Discoveries
Register for a free account and learn English with customized online courses. Increase your vocabulary and improve your listening, reading and speaking skills.
Active Reading
Practice English reading skills and take quizzes to check your comprehension.
Connected Speech
Practice speaking and listening to everyday conversation.
Citizenship Classes
Prepare for your naturalization exam and interview with our free, 12-week citizenship classes. To register, you must attend the first class and present a green card. Online and phone registration are not available.
Testing and registration for the spring 2019 class has ended. Please check back for information on future classes.
Can't make it to class, but still want to prep for the test? Try ProCitizen.
Read to Learn
This 10-week class is designed for adults who already speak English but want to improve their reading and writing skills. We'll test your reading level at the first class so we know the best ways to help you learn. You must attend the first session to register; online and phone registration are not available.
Testing and registration for the spring 2019 class has ended. Please check back for information on future classes.
More ESL Resources
Contact these community organizations directly for more information about their English as a Second Language classes: