Perhaps you would like to improve your English language skills or simply need help getting started on learning a new language. Librarians at the Upper Arlington Public Library are prepared to help you by providing you with this list of useful resources for your ESOL or world language needs.
The UA Library also has great resources for patrons who are interested in traveling to places with people that speak languages other than English, or are simply looking for language enrichment.
For both ESOL and world language learners, be sure to check out our wide variety of world language movies, books, magazines, and more, featuring a variety of languages, also highlighted in this subject guide.
INDEXES/DATABASES
The following are part of Upper Arlington Public Library’s database subscriptions. Unless you are in one of our library branches, you will need your library card number and PIN to access them. Please note: Links to our databases open in a new window or tab in your browser.
- Mango Languages – An online language-learning system that includes lessons on learning English from 19 different native language perspectives, including Chinese, Spanish, Arabic, and more. English speakers can also learn new languages. Mango is also available as a mobile app.
- Oxford English Dictionary – Provides a guide to the meaning and history of words from across the English speaking world, including quotations showing changes in meaning over time.
- TumbleBook Library – A fun and engaging way for children and their families to learn and practice English, TumbleBooks has animated picture books with text and narration. It also includes some world language books.
- Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test and Career Prep – A test preparation resource that includes courses and practice exams for TOEFL, TOEIC, and US Citizenship exam. Also includes tutorials on basic skills like writing and math.
- World Book Encyclopedia – Articles in this award-winning encyclopedia can be translated into dozens of languages to choose from. You can also access the Spanish- and French-language editions of World Book Encyclopedia from this link.
REFERENCE RESOURCES
Visit the Research Department in the Tremont Branch Library for resources on English and world languages, available for use during our regular hours of operation. You will find English-language and world-language dictionaries, as well as dictionaries on:
JOURNALS/MAGAZINES
Below is UAPL’s selection of world language magazine titles. These can be found in the Research Department of the Main Library.
Chinese
Japanese
Spanish
ARCHIVES/SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
Upper Arlington Public Library has many ESOL learning materials that can be checked out or reserved, including books, DVDs, CDs, and more. Most are training and educational materials, but also include a selection of adult fiction and nonfiction books at an ESOL learner’s reading level.
The Tremont Branch Library has a collection of fiction and nonfiction books in world languages available for checking out, located in the Adult section of the library. The languages in this collection include:
- Chinese
- French
- Hindi
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Polish
- Russian
- Spanish
UA Library also has a large collection of films in a variety of languages, as well as world language materials for children. See a library staff member for help locating and searching these collections.
WEBSITES
These recommended websites are chosen by a Research Librarian as reliable sources of information for ESOL and world language learning.
Dictionaries
Translation/Language Learning
ESOL
- BBC: Learning English
- GCFLearnFree.org: Learn English Reading Program
- Voices of America: News and Information for English Learners
Local Resources
- Columbus Literacy Council – The mission of this nonprofit organization is to increase employability, enable future education, encourage civic involvement and promote family stability and support. One of the ways they do this is by offering programs to individuals seeking to learn or improve their ESOL. Learn more about the programs they offer, including ESOL-related ones, by following the link or calling them at 614-224-0501.
- LSS 211 Central Ohio – Formerly HandsOn Central Ohio, LSS 211 helps connect people in the community to services and resources they need. Search “English as a Second Language” to find organizations that provide education to adults and younger people, or call 211 (614-221-6766 outside of Central Ohio) for more information.
- Ohio Latino Affairs Commission – This organization lists community resources and directories that help support and provide opportunities for Spanish speakers.
- Asian American Community Services – Dedicated to serving the entire Asian and Asian American population in central Ohio, AACS provides education, training, and leadership opportunities. Check out their website for more information.
- Columbus City Schools Adult & Community Education – Offers free GED prep and ESOL classes for adults, and basic skills literacy classes for adults, as well as vocational training programs for adults and different sites through Franklin County.
Library Programs
Check the Events calendars of local libraries around Central Ohio for ESOL learning and conversation classes. Here are a few libraries that regularly offer them:
- Columbus Metropolitan Library (multiple branches) – Under Event Type, select ESOL Class to find times and locations.
- Worthington Libraries – Their English Conversation Group meets regularly.
- Upper Arlington Public Library – The UA Library branches offer English discussion groups and conversation practice. On our Events Calendar, select ESL as the Event Type to find out more, or call us at (614)486-9621 ext. 252.
SEARCH STARTERS
Click the links below to see a list of materials in the library’s catalog on subjects related to ESOL and world languages.