The New Westminster Public Library is celebrating two anniversaries in March.
The very first Saturday morning English as a second language conversation circle was held in March 2009, and it has been going strong for four years. The Friday morning ESL conversation circle for women started one year later.
The programs are held every Friday and Saturday morning, as long as the library is open. More than 4,000 people have participated in the circles. They've come from places around the world - from Korea, Bosnia, Colombia, Morocco, Mexico, China, Kenya, and the Philippines, to name a few.
Most participants speak more than two languages. Their English language skills vary from almost nothing to very fluent.
The conversation circles are led by volunteer facilitators. More than 35 people have volunteered during the years, and we couldn't have offered this program without them. Their enthusiasm and energy make the conversation circles an enjoyable and talkative experience for everybody.
The conversation circles are held in partnership with Family Services of Greater Vancouver; the first few years it was with Fraserside Community Services.
The Saturday morning circle is held from 10 to 11 a.m. and is open to everybody. The women-only circle takes place on Friday mornings from 10: 30 to 11: 30 a.m. You don't need to register., just drop in and come ready to talk.
And, if you're working to improve your English, check out the ESL collection. There are books, CDs and DVDs that can help with grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, writing, and TOEFL and other tests.
You'll also find books written for ESL readers, some with CDs so you can listen to the book while you read it. In the reference department is a software program on two computers that will help you learn more about Canada, as well as help with job search, study skills and business writing.
Drop into one of our circles. Come prepared to meet people from around the world and join stimulating conversations.
