Free English Classes


English Classes

The New York Public Library helps adult students improve their communication skills in English. We offer two types of English classes, available at more than 40 libraries in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

These are series-based classes, held year-round in 10-week cycles. Most classes meet two days each week, for two hours each day. Select classes meet on Saturday mornings for four hours. Classes are for beginner, intermediate, and advanced level students. Students must attend an information session to register for classes, and registration is required in order to attend these classes.

  1. ESOL Classes: for non-native speakers to improve listening, speaking, reading and writing.

  2. Adult Basic Education Classes: for students who already speak English but want to improve their reading and writing.

  3. English for Work Classes: for Intermediate and Advanced speakers looking for work or already employed and want a better job.   

Information Sessions

At the Information Session, you will make an appointment to register for classes.

Please note:

  • Classes are open to adults.
  • Testing is required for placement.
  • Documentation is not required.
  • Space is limited.
  • Children are not allowed at registration.

View our schedule of upcoming Information Sessions. For the most current information available regarding these classes, please ask at your local branch or email esol@nypl.org.

Academic Calendar

Summer 2019:
Information Sessions Begin:  July 13,  2019
Classes Begin:  July 29, 2019
Classes End:  August 25, 2019

Fall 2019:
Information Sessions Begin:  September 14,  2019
Classes Begin:  September 30, 2019
Classes End:  December 16, 2019

Drop-in English Conversation Classes

Already know English and want to practice speaking with other people? Come to the library, and meet other people who are practicing English.

In these classes, intermediate-level English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners will have the opportunity to: practice English by watching We Are New York videos and talking about them; talk with library volunteers about current events, New York City, family life, and holidays; or prepare for the United States citizenship exam.

There are also high beginner level conversation classes available for students who have filed a USCIS N400 application, and are preparing to take the United States Citizenship exam in the next six to nine months. View our calendar listing for upcoming classes.

 

 

 

Major support for educational programming is provided by Merryl H. and James S. Tisch.

Major support for the Library's adult literacy, English language programs and technology training is provided by the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development; Arthur W. Koenig; The JPB Foundation; the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Title II funding administered through the New York State Education Department; Stavros Niarchos Foundation; The Pasculano Foundation; and Lisa and Jeff Blau.

Additional support provided by the New York State Coordinated Outreach Services Program; the NYC Connected Communities, a program of the New York City Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Baker Family Foundation; Bank of America; Wiley; The Earl Bailey Trust; New York State Library’s Adult Literacy Library Services grant program; and an anonymous donor.