The Wood Place Public Library is reaching out to the community's growing Hispanic population and citizens of the California community who speak English as a second language (ESL). The library's Literacy Bridge Project is providing an opportunity for these citizens who would benefit from improved English language skills.
ESL classes began meeting last week to utilize the new state-of-the-art language software. Rosetta Stone is a widely recognized program that successfully teaches language skills to young people and adults. The feature which sets Rosetta Stone apart from other language software is the use of headphones equipped with a microphone, which the student must listen to, then pronounce words and phrases correctly in order to move to the next word or level. This program allows the students to work independently and advance at their own speed. The Missouri State Library, Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grant, provided funds for the purchase of 26 units in three levels of both the English and Spanish language software which was installed as a server-based program.
There has also been interest in providing Spanish classes for English-speaking citizens. Registration has begun for Spanish classes which are scheduled to begin later this fall or early winter.
While the grant provided funds for the language software, this program would not have been possible without generous donations from area businesses and individuals for the equipment needs of this project which will play a crucial role in bridging the language barrier in the community.
Wood Place Public Library is located at 501 South Oak Street, California. For more information, call 573-796-2642.