Download a guide to English Language Learning Resources in your language!
The perfect resource to help your organization begin or enhance a program for lawful permanent residents. Whether included in a public library's collection of resources, used in a classroom, or made available to community-based organizations, the 'Civics and citizenship toolkit' provides a wealth of information for immigrants and the organization that serve them.
A comprehensive guide for new permanent residents. The guide contains practical information to help immigrants settle into everyday life in the United States, as well as basic civics information that introduces new immigrants to the U.S. system of government.
Learning a new language can feel difficult, but the Library has lots of free resources to help you improve your English and literacy skills. Here are some tools to get started.
Let's Speak English is an in-person conversation group available to English language learners of all levels. The program is offered at several CLP locations and is a fun, relaxed environment to practice speaking English with Library staff and friendly ELL neighbors. No registration is required. Visit our Events Page to find a group near you!
Mango Languages offers self-led English instruction in 21 world languages. Start by logging in with your library card number and creating a free account with an email address to keep track of your progress. Choose "English" as the language you want to learn and then choose the language you want to learn in.
Search the Library Catalog using keywords to browse English language learning books, videos, audio and more. You can also search for materials in hundreds of world languages! Here are some catalog searches to get you started:
Libby is the Library's place to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and more for free using your CLP library card. Access Libby through your browser or download the app to your smart device. Search the terms "ESL" or "Learn English" to find language learning resources, or use the filters to search for items in your own language.
Hoopla is the place to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, music, movies, and more for free using your CLP library card. Access through your browser or download the app to your smart device. Search the terms "ESL" or "Learn English" to find language learning resources, or use the filters to search for items in your own language.
PressReader has access to newspapers from around the world. Access through your browser or download the app to your smart device. Search newspapers by language or country to read the latest news!
The following organizations offer English language classes for free or a small fee. Some of these programs have a waiting list, but you can use the Library's digital English language learning resources while you wait!
Literacy Pittsburgh | 411 Seventh Avenue, Suite 525, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Free English Classes for Immigrants and Refugees
Online and In-Person Classes & Tutors
Contact: ELL Enrollment Coordinator at 412-393-7650 or info@literacypittsburgh.org
Classes for adults in reading, writing, and math for college and career readiness.
Contact: 412-260-2770 or class@literacypittsburgh.org
Casa San Jose | 2116 Broadway Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
In-Person and Virtual ESL Classes
Contact: 412-343-3111 or info@casasanjose.org
Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced ESL
In-Person and Virtual
Contact: Apply online or call 1-877-499-3526
Free online classes for Allegheny County residents in reading and GED preparation. In-person classes are available at the Forest Hills PA CareerLink building. Visit their website for more details.
Contact: 412-632-1800 or fill out their Information Request Form
Church of Ascension, Shadyside | 4729 Ellsworth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
14-week In-Person English Language Classes
(some classes available virtually), Levels 0 – 6
Contact: 412-621-4361 or PittsburghEnglish4U@gmail.com
Allegheny Intermediate Unit | 475 East Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120
Family Literacy Program
Adult Education, including ESL
Contact: 412-281-4494 or Adulted@aiu3.net
Adult education classes in reading, math, GED prep, and more.
Contact: 412-281-4494 or adulted@aiu3.net
Islamic Center of Pittsburgh | 4100 Bigelow Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Fee based: $15 per class
English as a Second Language Instruction Course
Contact: 412-682-5555 or office@icp-pgh.org
Learn ESL Pittsburgh | Second United Presbyterian Church, 300 Hay Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Fee Based: $10 per session
Beginner and Advanced Classes
Contact: 878-222-0506 (text us!) or learneslpittsburgh@gmail.com
Finding books you are interested in can be a great way to practice your English or improve your literacy. Find some suggestions below and fill out our Recommendations Form to receive personalized recommendations from one of our Librarians!
Entertaining English-language Novels for ESL Readers
Thought-provoking Picks for ESL Readers
View all of our staff picks for adults
Rapid Reads are short books for adult readers, including ESL students, adults working on their literacy skills, and anyone who wants a high-interest quick read. Interest level ages 16+.
Stepping Stones books are great for readers of all ages. This series includes shortened versions of classic stories, nonfiction, and short fiction.
The Oxford Bookworms Collection features classics, modern fiction, non-fiction and more for English Language Students of all levels.
Cambridge English Readers are original stories written especially for learners of English. Available in seven levels, these readers offer stories in a range of genres for adult English learners.
