The library is one of the first destinations newcomers to New Westminster visit when they move here.
For most, it continues to be a place of gathering, learning and guidance, even after they have settled in their new lives.
We want our ESL users to feel welcome at the New Westminster Public Library, so we work hard to design collections, services and programs that address their specific needs.
We not only have learning materials and in-house conversation groups for those wanting to improve their English, but also online resources and publications in other languages.
We have also teamed up with MOSAIC and SUCCESS to offer regular workshops and programs that help new immigrants prepare for their citizenship exams, learn about the Canadian workplace culture, or get help filing their tax return.
Many language-learning materials, grouped by skill type and level, are available in print and audio formats.
In addition, users can set up their own accounts on Rocket Languages, a database that can be accessed from our Resources page by anyone who has a New Westminster Library card (www.nwpl.ca).
It gives access to comprehensive multi-media packages and allows users to track their progress and even download the learning modules in MP3 format.
For those who enjoy watching foreign movies or reading in their native languages, we have a collection of DVDs and books to suit their preferences.
What can be more convenient than accessing local newspapers from all over the world on any device with Internet access?
Press Display, a data-base available on the Resources page, has the current issues of more than 2,200 newspapers from 97 countries in 54 languages.
We also have a selection of newspapers and magazines in print format for those who read Chinese, French, Italian, Korean, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian and Spanish.
In addition to these ESL resources and services, we will soon have computers equipped with ESL software.
We aim to provide diversified services for our ELS users to help them succeed.
