CITY LIBRARY TO OFFER ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES

	St. Louis, MO - The St. Louis Public Library is partnering with the International Institute to offer FREE English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at various Library locations throughout the city. New English speakers can participate in conversation groups or practice one-on-one with a native English speaker. The classes are informal and newcomers are always welcome. Beginning Monday, June 17, classes will meet weekly for about one hour and will be held at:

Buder Branch					
4401 Hampton Ave.				
Fridays 2:30 p.m.		 			
Fridays 4 p.m.					
								
Carpenter Branch
3309 S. Grand Ave.
Fridays 1 p.m.
Sundays 2 p.m.	

Schlafly Branch
225 N. Euclid Ave.
Mondays 7 p.m.
Tuesdays 10 a.m.
Saturdays 1 p.m.

Carondelet Branch		
6800 Michigan Ave.		
Thursdays 4 p.m.		
Saturdays 9 a.m.		

Kingshighway Branch
2260 S. Vandeventer Ave.
Wednesdays 5:30 p.m.
Saturdays 11 a.m.

	In addition, volunteers are needed to assist with the program. The Library seeks individuals who enjoy working with people and who want to make a difference in the lives of new St. Louisans. Volunteers may either lead conversation practice groups or partner with individuals to help them practice English. For details on volunteering, call Robin Gillespie in the Library's Volunteer Office at 539-0345.

	The goals of the ESL classes are to improve the quality of life of new English speakers by increasing their fluency and to provide them with opportunities to socialize in their new culture. The program will help participants learn about the invaluable information and recreation resources available at the Library.
	
	The English as a Second Language classes are funded by a grant from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act administered by the Missouri State Library.			

	For more information, call 539-0365 or e-mail Sam Franklin at sfranklin_slpl@yahoo.com.