Learn a language in your local library

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Adults and children will be able to choose from
more than 100 languages to learn at Shepherds Bush Library and Askew Road Library.

The free learning languages in libraries scheme
uses interactive computer software, called Eurotalk, which focuses on speaking and listening skills. It is fun, easy-to-use and suitable for children and adults.

Staff at Shepherds Bush and Askew Road libraries
have been trained to help visitors to use the programme, which is
available on dedicated computer terminals. One aim is to encourage
children and parents whose first language is not English to use the
scheme - so the parents can help their children with homework.

Internet links will also be provided on the
computers to online language sites such as BBC World Service, which
provides news in 43 languages, as well as newspaper sites in community
languages. All local libraries hold collections of books in a variety of
languages, which are available for learners to borrow.

Children's entertainer Mrs Marvel and the
borough's mayor, Cllr Charlie Treloggan, launched the learning languages
in libraries scheme at Askew Road Library today (Tuesday, 28 February)
with children from Wendell Park after-school centre and their parents.

Learning languages in libraries has been
introduced in the borough following a successful bid by the council for
a grant from the UK Online Libraries Challenge Fund. UK Online was set
up by the government to widen access to computers and online learning
for people who don't have a computer at home.

The mayor, Cllr Charlie Treloggan, said: "We are
always looking for new ways to encourage people to come into their local
libraries. This is an easy and fun way for children and their parents to
learn English or one of more than 100 other languages together. Trained
staff are on hand to help and the scheme is free. I hope as many local
families as possible take advantage of it."

 

March 6, 2006