English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

#You can learn English and the Center for Adult Learning can help!

Our experienced instructors will help you improve your reading, writing, speaking, listening, and comprehension skills in English.

Our English program will help you: Two women learning to speak English at the Library

Improve your pronunciation and fluency in English
Increase your English vocabulary
Improve life skills and successfully navigate around town
Read various written sources, such as signs, articles, newsletters, and books
Learn English grammar rules and improve your writing skills
Communicate effectively with individuals in various daily life situations, including: on the phone, shopping, at school or work, or preparing for a job interview

#How Do I Join?

Adults entering the ESOL program must:

A resident of Duval County
18 years of age or older

In order to register for classes, all new students will complete a registration appointment. All appointments are held online through Zoom, so you will need internet access in order to complete the appointment.

What to expect before the appointment:

The week of your appointment, a staff member will send you an email reminder. This reminder will include links to join the Zoom virtual appointment, registration form, and English level placement test.

You must complete the registration form and English level placement test before your scheduled appointment.

Please call 904-255-6135 if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Due to COVID safety, all classes are currently being offered virtually, online. For dates and times click on the button below. Classes are FREE!

ESOL Events and Classes

#More Practice Speaking English:

Conversation Essentials

Conversation Essentials are informal, drop-in sessions facilitated by a native speaker. Each session has a particular topic that incorporates vocabulary and key grammar points.

Due to COVID safety, all classes are currently being offered virtually, online. For dates and times click on the button below. Classes are FREE!

ESOL Events and Classes

Call (904) 255-6135 for days and times.

#Library resources:

Transparent Language
Duolingo

Additionally, the Main Library and all of the library branches have books, videos, and more to help adults learn English as a second language. In the children's department of every library, you will find books with read-along CDs. Enjoy an audiobook with your child and listen to English at the same time!

FAQ

How much does the program cost?

Classes are FREE for residents of Duval County. Out of county residents must secure a Non-Resident Library Card, in order to participate. See https://jaxpubliclibrary.org/services/get-library-card for more information on how to get a library card.

How do I enroll in the ESOL program?

Schedule an intake appointment to enroll. The appointment will take 1 hour and be completed online through Zoom.

Tell me more about the teachers.

All teachers are native English speakers and have several years of experience teaching English language learners, but most importantly, they have a heart for helping those who wish to learn English.

How many people are in a class?

Up to 12

Will my classmates have the same level of English skills as me?

Yes, you will be placed in a class with students who have a similar level of English speaking, reading and writing skills.

When do classes meet?

Mornings and evenings Monday through Thursday, plus Saturday mornings.

How much conversation practice will I get?

We offer multiple English Conversation Essentials workshops each week.

What additional support do you offer?

In addition to classes, our instructors are available by appointment for individual support. With your Library Card, you can access several language learning resources, such as Transparent Language.

How long will it take me to learn English?

It is up to you. It depends on how much time you can devote to learning and practicing, as well as your starting point. During your intake appointment, you will complete a brief assessment to determine your starting level. We will also identify any specific goals you wish to achieve and put a plan together to help you reach those goals.