Literacy Resources for Adult ESL and ABE Educators: Literacy at BPL

Practice speaking English in an informal and friendly group setting with other ESL learners and new English speakers. Groups are led by a native English speaker. They are free and do not require registration. The schedule is on the second page of this link.

The Boston Public Library offers ESL instruction in a traditional classroom environment. Classes are designed as extra opportunities for people either already enrolled in a more intensive program or for people with limited time to devote to learning English. Classes range from beginner – for people with little or no experience with English – to high-intermediate. Classes are free; however, registration is required. For more information and to register please call 617-859-2446, or email literacyservices@bpl.org or mtheroux@bpl.org. To locate additional programs around the city, the Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline is a helpful resource.

Our Small Group Tutoring program offers both English-as-a-Second Language (ESL) and Adult Basic Education (ABE) skills instruction. ESL groups are composed of 2-4 participants and one native-English speaking tutor. Participants have the chance to work on improving their conversational skills, as well as reading and writing. ABE groups traditionally have less students and focus on improving basic reading and writing skills toward individual student goals. For more information and to register please call 617-859-2446, or email literacyservices@bpl.org or mtheroux@bpl.org.

Need help preparing for the HiSET/GED test? This class will provide assistance with building reading, writing, and basic math skills. For more information, please contact Literacy Services at 617-859-2446 or literacyservices@bpl.org.

This program is in partnership with the St. Mark Community Education Program. Project Citizenship will provide applicants free technical and legal help when completing their applications for citizenship.
This class prepares students for all parts of their Citizenship test. It will cover the literacy test, 100 questions about U.S. history and government, and provide help to improve speaking and listening abilities in English. Requirements: Basic level English, legal Permanent Resident card for five years or three years if married to an American citizen. Please contact the Literacy Services Department at 617-859-2446 or literacy services@bpl.org for more information.