Boston Public Library Fund (Boston Public Library)

The Boston Public Library will expand its English as a second language (ESL) programming to all of its 26 library locations across the city. The project will respond to the rising demand for ESL programs, which has been heightened by the pandemic and ultimately helps individuals participate more fully in the workforce and economy. The libraries will offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced English-language classes, as well as test preparation classes for General Educational Development (GED) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exams. The libraries also will provide small group tutoring and volunteer-led conversation groups. The library fund will hire an additional literacy instructor and volunteer coordinator to manage and implement the expanded programming. The library fund also will implement a robust marketing and communications campaign in multiple languages to promote the new programs.