Languages
Library E-Resources
Transparent Languages provides an effective and engaging experience for people looking to build their vocabulary, practice their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, and maintain what they learn.
Combining robust courses, supplemental vocabulary, extensive grammar resources, and mobile apps, Transparent Language Online is the most complete language-learning system. With over 100 languages to choose from, including English for speakers of over 26 languages, there is something for every learner. Best of all, with enhanced support for Android ™ tablets and iPads, learners can enjoy the freedom to learn at home, in the library, or on the go.
· 110+ languages (and growing!): Whether it’s Spanish, French, Arabic, Ojibwe, or English, if you want it, they (probably) have it!
· Customized learning path: Placement tests let learners see recommended courses and lessons for their level, or they choose their own content.
· Focus on a specific skill: Listening, speaking, reading, and writing are all part of the language puzzle. Learners can pick and skills-based learning activity, select their desired vocabulary, and instantly launch a custom lesson.
· Learn on the go: At the library, at home, and everywhere in between, access to lessons is possible on almost any device, including full-feature mobile apps for iOS and Android tablets and phones.
System Requirements
iPhone/iPad: 11.0 or later
Android: Android OS 5.0 or later.
Local Resources
Free English Conversation Circles at the Maynard Public Library
(Held in Cullen Room, 2nd floor)
Click here to visit the library's English Conversation Group page for the most up-to-date information on upcoming classes.
Are you new to studying English? Do you want to practice your speaking and listening and develop more confidence in speaking English with others? In a Conversation Circle you can to talk about daily life, ideas, books, movies, travel or food, science, parenting, hobbies, or the the news, etc. In this group you can learn to comfortably speak English about topics in everyday English. You can also practice your pronunciation and add words to your everyday vocabulary by practicing your skills in a friendly environment.
No registration is required. The Circles are led by an experienced English teacher who greatly enjoys being with English language learners.
Provides free English language instruction to refugee and immigrant adults in Boston area communities. Organized by trained volunteers that deliver small-group instruction targeted to each learner’s goals.
Hudson-Maynard Adult Learning Center
Offers five levels of free literacy classes to adult learners including English Spoken with Other Languages (ESOL) and Hi-Set preparation.
A free statewide adult education program. Students can choose from High School Equivalency (GED and HiSet) preparation classes or English for Speakers of Other Language (ESOL/ESL) classes. Classes are offered fully online with evening and morning options to help you work around your schedule.
Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline
Provides referrals to 300+ adult education programs that offer one-on-one tutoring, small-group or classroom instruction to adult learners. Includes information about basic reading, math, adult basic education, English language training, family literacy, Hi-Set preparation or testing sites. You can also call 1-800-447-8844 to speak with a live agent.
English Resources Directory for MA
Provides a complete list of ESL classes in all areas of Massachusetts.
Find Literacy, ESOL, and Citizenship Programs
Searches all Massachusetts libraries for a list of programs.
Offers a variety of credit and non-credit courses throughout the year in mostlanguages. Classes can be taken online or on-campus in Bedford and Lowell.
Wayland Public Library ESOL Conversation Group
Do you know someone who is learning basic English? The Wayland Library is starting an English conversation group for beginning and advanced beginning English speakers. This group is ideal for people who want to practice their English and learn about American culture. We will meet two Fridays each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. English-language learners at any level can apply for a free, one-on-one, English-language tutor. Applications are available at the adult circulation desk.
Web Resources
Free audio & video lessons for speaking French, Chinese, Greek, Italian, Spanish, & more. Courses available in beginner & intermediate levels.
Excellent language learning site for beginners with units for 12 languages. Free login required.
Free service helping you learn languages with your friends while simultaneously contributing to translate real-world content from the Web. Also available as an app.
Hundreds of lessons for speaking, role play/conversation topics, grammar, vocab, pronunciation, reading, writing, etc, & most lessons include audio. Also has links to other ESL web sites, & textbook recommendations.
The largest pronunciation guide in the world with audio pronunciations in more than 200 languages.
Takes a block of text in one language and translates it into another language.Includes 50+ languages as well as a “hear it” and “see it used in context” features.
Find lessons, online flashcards, activities and games, to enhance language learning. Offers Chines, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. Also offers English instruction for French and Spanish speakers.
A project of the U.S. Dept. of Education. Offers free instruction at beginning and intermediate levels in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a simple and engaging format. Lessons focus on practical skills related to everyday life, family, health, and the workplace. There are classroom videos, story videos, newsfeature stories, and many interactive practice activities.
In-Library Resources
All language books and Books on CD can be found in the Non-Fiction area in the 400s on the 2nd level.
The Reference Collection also contains dictionaries for most foreign languages.
The library has a small Spanish fiction and non-fiction collection. This is located on the 2nd level.
MLN Catalog Language Interface
The Minuteman Catalog is available with a traditional Chinese, French, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish interface.
If you need help in finding a certain title or language, please ask at the Reference Desk or call 978-897-1010 x103.
Please note that while our website does contain a small number of outside curated links (primarily to local, governmental, and non-profit sites covering subjects of interest to our patrons), we regret that we are unable to spend the time to fully evaluate unsolicited links that are sent to us for inclusion on our site; therefore we do not act on these recommendations.
Revised 5/23/2023 J.R.