One of the pleasures of my job as a librarian at New Westminster Public Library is helping to oversee our volunteer-led, drop-in ESL Conversation Circles. Our circles have been operating for over nine years and we work in partnership with Family Services of Greater Vancouver to produce the program.
On Friday and Saturday mornings, English learners who want to improve their conversation skills can make community connections and practise speaking English in an informal, fun way.
As the library is undergoing a renovation, the circles are currently meeting off-site. The Friday group is women-only and meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the New Westminster Family Services office at 321 Sixth St.
At the Saturday circles, both men and women can attend. The group meets at Century House on the first and third Saturdays of the month at 620 Eighth St. in Moody Park. And we have recently added the Anvil Centre as another site for the second, fourth and fifth Saturdays of the month.
I am always inspired by the diversity of our participants. Many of our attendees have lived in Canada for some time, while others are new to Canada. Our banner has more than 50 flags representing the home countries of our participants.
The circles are an opportunity for international students, residents, grandparents, visitors, retirees and refugees to join together to discuss and learn about Canadian traditions, holidays and community events.
Our resourceful, empathic and energetic volunteers keep the program going. Each week, they prepare conversation topic lists and games to encourage and assist our participants. We are grateful for their dedication and commitment.
We currently have enough English-speaking volunteers but are always looking for new participants. If you would like to practise English or know someone who does, please join us.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 604-527-4666. To confirm the dates, visit the library for a handout or check the Events and Programs link at nwpl.ca.
