Learn a New Language for Free Using Your Library Card

It may seem impossible to find accessible and affordable language-learning resources. But, did you know that your local library can provide all of these tools and more?  Needing only a library card, you could potentially learn an entire language for free. Whether that includes using language learning technology like Mango or CDs that help you practice conversational skills, access to materials like films and books, or a free class, your library is ready to help you meet your learning goals for free!

sign the pledge to vote for libraries! 

Use Mango Languages Software for Free

Mango is a language learning service that is often completely free and accessible to people who have a library card. Mango combines modern technology and an adaptive algorithm to create a personalized language learning experience. The service provides fun and engaging courses that focus on conversational skills, speaking proficiency, and cultural insight. Using your local library allows you to fully immerse yourself in this award-winning language service and all of its courses. Call your library today to ask about how you can access this resource using your library card. Ask about Rosetta Stone and if they have other language tools as well. Many libraries have resources designed specifically for children too.

Leggere, Lire, Lesen (Read, Read, Read)

Read, read, read. Almost all libraries allow you to check out language books for free.Whether you’re interested in learning more about English, Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or any other language there’s probably a book that can help you. Language books can help you understand grammatical structures and cultural information. Some language books may even include practice questions that allow you to work on your skills in the comfort of your own home.

Watch Foreign Films

Check out other mediums in addition to books, including DVDs. Sometimes, the best way to learn a new language is to dive right into it. Foreign films can help you comprehend the information you’ve already learned and find out what it may look like in a real setting. There are also plenty of DVDs devoted to language learning that are accessible to people of all ages.

Listen to Audiobooks

If you’re someone who thrives off auditory learning, CDs may be a good choice for you and are completely free and accessible at your local library. Language learning CDs provide exercises for you to practice and reenact everyday situations that may be important to the language. This can also include audiobooks of language learning books transferred to CDs.

Use All of the Library’s Resources

These are only a few of the many resources that can be found at your local library. You may choose to combine a number of these resources to create your own comprehensive language learning plan.

For example, you may choose to take interactive courses on Mango while checking out a library book for further practice.

Also, it should be acknowledged that many libraries offer free ESL courses for people interested in affordable language learning services. Many libraries offer other language learning tools and programs such as newspapers, iPads, conversation programs, and so much more. When it comes to language learning at your local library, the opportunities are limitless.

A library is a place for learning.

Or, in other words…

Eine Bibliothek ist ein Ort des Lernens.

Biblioteka — eto mesto dlya obucheniya.

Una biblioteca es un lugar para aprender.

Une bibliothèque est un lieu d’apprentissage.

Túshū guǎn shì xuéxí dì dìfāng.

Una biblioteca è un luogo di apprendimento.

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn how you can support self-guided learning in your community.