AIR DATE JULY 27, 2023
Title: Learning Languages at the Library
Emily speaks with OCLS staff to uncover language-learning tips and language classes available.
Guests
ESL Classes at OCLS, Southeast Branch Manager – Paolo Melillo
Orange County Library Services, Technology Trainer & Spanish Instructor – Brenda Santana
Literacy Opportunities Go Beyond Books at the Local Library
Although English is one of the world’s most popular languages, it is not the only one spoken in many communities and families. It is even the second or third one that some people learn.
I recently visited with the staff at Orange County Library Services to discuss ESOL and second language classes open for students.
“Regarding our ESOL program or English for Speakers of Other Languages, one of the first things I noticed when I started working at the Orange County Library System was a growing demand and a growing need for many of our people coming through our doors, wanting access to English language learning,” said Paolo Melillo, Branch Manager for the Southeast Region.
“It makes sense,” he continued. “Over 20% of Orange County is foreign-born, and up to 38% speak a language other than English at home.”
Learning a second language comes with numerous benefits. “When you’re learning a language that works with a part of your brain that helps you to retain like list, names, directions, things like that,” Brenda Santana, a Spanish instructor and technology trainer with the library, told me. “It also gives you a better chance maybe to apply to a bilingual position or to meet new people.”
Numerous Classes Are Available to Try
“Attending an ESOL class is very easy,” said Melillo. “For in-person classes, all you need to do is just show up. There’s no cost.”
You will need a library card for specialized classes, like English for Families or ESOL for Financial Literacy.
If you’re interested in learning Spanish, the library offers conversational workshops, a basics class, and intermediate-level learning opportunities. “We try to use different styles to target different type of learners,” Santana said. “Our in-person classes are very informal and welcoming.”
Several options are also available for ESOL learners, including English from Zero and English Conversation Hour.
Many of the In-Person Classes Are Available Online
Melillo told me that the library’s core classes are available online for those uncomfortable in a traditional classroom setting. This option also works well for those who prefer to work at a more individualized pace.
“We offer a wide variety of language-learning programs and software,” Melillo said. Mango Languages, Rocket Languages, and Pronunciator are our language-learning platforms. You just sign in and start learning at your own pace.”
Some in-person classes use a slower pace or individualized learning to help everyone embrace a new language in ways that work for them. “I think the way the classes are structured and organized makes [students] feel more relieved,” said Santana.
“We strive to make the classes very informal, very friendly, to feel comfortable; we’re dedicated to that,” Melillo added.
If you’re interested in taking language classes at the library, you can look for options online on their website or contact their Questline at (407) 835-7323. In addition to ESOL and Spanish, you can take Creole. Public computers are available at each location for additional support.
Volunteer opportunities are also available throughout the Orange County Library System. If you’d like to get more involved with community literacy, a role could be waiting for you!
