Languages at the Library
I’ve noticed over the last few years that more and more signs are posted in more than one language. I gaze at the words that are not English, trying to decipher them, generally unsuccessfully. I stand across the desk from someone who is trying to communicate to me in a language I don’t know, and I wish I could help. I realize that the five-year-old accompanying that patron is bilingual, and wonder why her skills in that area should surpass mine, but my high school Spanish has abandoned me. I don’t have a lot of spare time in my day, but I know that some of the time spent on the Internet or in front of the television could be invested better. With that time, I could explore another language.
Both Waterloo and Cedar Falls Public Libraries have World Languages Collections. Books, movies and music in Spanish populate the collection, with other languages growing. But if you haven’t already mastered these languages, we also provide the means to get you there.
Mango Languages and Rocket Languages are both available online by using your library card. Spanish, German, French, Italian and even American Sign courses can be pursued at your own speed. Interactive lessons help with pronunciation, spelling and grammar. You can even practice the words out loud, and have the program evaluate your pronunciation. Online communities can offer support and answer questions. And if you skip class tomorrow to catch up on Mad Men, no one will know, but you’ll be able to pick up right where you left off when you go back.
Books, both print and on CD, and Playaways are also available to help learn another language. If you haven’t heard me push the Playaways lately, remember that they are mp3 players with a pre-loaded book. You just supply the earbuds and push the “play” button. They’re great companions for walking and gardening.
Learning another language can be a great leisure time activity that not only helps you communicate with other members of your community, but can also strengthen your employment potential. Find the tools to do that at the public library.
Both Waterloo and Cedar Falls Public Libraries have World Languages Collections. Books, movies and music in Spanish populate the collection, with other languages growing. But if you haven’t already mastered these languages, we also provide the means to get you there.
Mango Languages and Rocket Languages are both available online by using your library card. Spanish, German, French, Italian and even American Sign courses can be pursued at your own speed. Interactive lessons help with pronunciation, spelling and grammar. You can even practice the words out loud, and have the program evaluate your pronunciation. Online communities can offer support and answer questions. And if you skip class tomorrow to catch up on Mad Men, no one will know, but you’ll be able to pick up right where you left off when you go back.
Books, both print and on CD, and Playaways are also available to help learn another language. If you haven’t heard me push the Playaways lately, remember that they are mp3 players with a pre-loaded book. You just supply the earbuds and push the “play” button. They’re great companions for walking and gardening.
Learning another language can be a great leisure time activity that not only helps you communicate with other members of your community, but can also strengthen your employment potential. Find the tools to do that at the public library.
posted by SGroskurth at 11:30 AM
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