Free English Classes
English Classes | Information Sessions | Informal English Conversation Classes | Citizenship Preparation
New Student Registration (online and in-person classes available)
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 20 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. To register for classes, click here.
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ESOL Classes: for non-native speakers to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
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Adult Basic Education Classes: for students who already speak English but want to improve their reading and writing.
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English for Work Classes: for Intermediate and Advanced speakers looking for work or already employed and want a better job.
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Online and in-person classes available:
Information Sessions
At the Information Session, you will make an appointment to register for classes.
Please note:
- Classes will meet from Monday, October 3 - Saturday, December 17.
- Classes are for adults 18 and above.
- Classes meet online or in-person.
- 6-month commitment is required to participate.
- Must live, work, or study in NYC.
- 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.
As a student in NYPL’s free ESOL classes, Raul Flores is proud to say that he has gone from knowing just a few basic English phrases, to being able to converse comfortably with other English speakers. Watch him tell his story.
Informal English Conversation Classes: We Speak NYC
Discover our full calendar of classes!
Some classes are IN PERSON at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library.
Some classes are ONLINE. Please read the listings carefully - and sign up.
Sign-up opens 1 week before each class!
You will receive an email confirmation immediately.
Then you will receive a reminder email 2 days before each class.
Intermediate and advanced level English language learners practice English by watching We Speak NYC videos and talking about them. Enjoy fun, interactive activities! Talk about New York City, current events, family life, and holidays — and meet other adult ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners from around the world.
IN-PERSON Intermediate-Level Conversation Classes:
Please note: We watch the same film in all classes during one week, but the conversations change. A different film the next week!
Mondays, 2-4 PM IN PERSON at SNFL, 6th Floor
August 15 | August 22 | August 29 | (no class Sept. 5) | September 12
IN-PERSON Advanced-Level Conversation Class:
Monday, 6-8 PM IN PERSON at SNFL, 6th Floor
IN-PERSON MIXED Intermediate-Advanced Level Conversation Classes:
Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 PM IN PERSON at SNFL, 6th Floor
Please note: We watch the same film in all classes during one week, but the conversations change. A different film the next week!
August 17 | August 24 | August 31 | September 7 | September 14
ONLINE Advanced-Level Conversation Classes:
You will receive a Zoom link 2 days before the class.
Mondays, 6 - 8 PM ONLINE
August 15 | August 22 | (no class Sept. 5) | September 12 | September 19
Conversation classes continue in September!
Citizenship Preparation and U.S. History
Discover our full calendar of classes!
Sign up for our lively mixed intermediate/advanced level citizenship classes for adults preparing to take the U.S. Citizenship Test in the next 1–2 years, and for adult English language learners who want to improve their English by learning about American history and culture.
IN-PERSON Intermediate/Advanced-Level Citizenship Classes:
Wednesdays, 2-4 PM IN PERSON at SNFL, 6th Floor
August 10 | August 17 | August 24 | August 31
Fridays, 10 AM-12 PM IN PERSON at SNFL, 6th Floor
August 12 | August 19 | August 26
Topics:
August 10, 12: The Oath of Allegiance and Naturalization
August 17, 19: Maps and U.S. Geography
August 24, 26: The Constitution and Bill of Rights
August 31: The Flag, Pledge of Allegiance and Star-Spangled Banner
Citizenship classes continue in September!
Watch "BECOMING AMERICANS" immigrant New Yorkers from across the globe come to the Library to learn English and prepare for the U.S. Citizenship Test & Interview.
Explore additional citizenship resources and supplemental study groups and programs.
Major support for educational programming is provided by Merryl H. and James S. Tisch.
Major support for the Library's adult literacy programs is provided by the City of New York; Lynne and Richard Pasculano; 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; and Lisa and Jeff Blau. Additional support provided by the New York State Coordinated Outreach Services Program; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Baker Family Foundation; The Earl Bailey Trust; New York State Library’s Adult Literacy Library Services grant program; and an anonymous donor.