Browsing the library shelves, you may have come across formal language-learning books, as well as picture books in a variety of world languages, including Spanish, Chinese, French, and Cherokee. Reading children’s books is a great way to build vocabulary naturally in the context of a story and with the help of illustrations. If you don’t know where to look to find these books, just ask! And if we don’t have what you’re looking for, chances are we can borrow it from another library in our region.

In addition to printed resources, the library works with local people fluent in languages other than English to provide programs that can introduce the public to new languages or give them opportunities to practice in a low-stress environment. Earlier this year, we hosted a series of seven workshops on the basics of Mandarin Chinese, taught by community member MengMeng. In August, instructor Stephanie Lipe led a four-part class on American Sign Language. She’ll be back at the library with more ASL sessions in February and August 2024! Additional language-learning programs are in the works for the future, including a language café, where people can gather and practice their conversation skills in a friendly, informal setting.

In addition to programs where you can actively learn a language, the library occasionally hosts movie screenings for a variety of ages in world languages with English subtitles. Movies can be great for absorbing the sound and sense of a language and picking up on some of the cultural nuances that you may not get simply from reading words on a page.

More information on library programs and resources can be found at www.chillipld.org or you can stop by or call 309-274-2719 to speak with a friendly staff member.