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WiFi @ the Library
Bring your laptop! Visit any of our 79 branches for free WiFi!
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Featured Resource
LearningExpressLibrary »
Take online practice tests and review courses to help you succeed in school and your career, including material for the TOEFL exam and the U.S. naturalization exam. Some review courses are available with Spanish language instructions.
Note that a Chicago Public Library card is required to use this resource from home, school, or work. When registering, use your library card number as your username.
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Featured Chicago Public Library Collections
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Most Chicago libraries have a separate Literacy Collection with books, CDs, and DVDs to help people improve their English. The largest collection of this type is in the Literature and Language Department (seventh floor) of the Harold Washington Library Center.
- Downloadable Media »
Through its downloadable media collection, CPL offers several audiobooks for learning English that you can download to your computer anytime, day or night.
Helpful Websites
- Illinois LINCS »
Sponsored by the Illinois State Library, Illinois LINCS supports adult literacy programs throughout the state and provides referrals for both learners and volunteers. Use the program's Illinois Adult Learning Hotline or online information request form to find English as a second language (ESL) classes near your home or work.
- City Colleges of Chicago: Academic Programs »
The City Colleges of Chicago offer English as a second language classes as well as courses that prepare one to take the U.S. naturalization exam. Courses are free of charge to Illinois residents.
- U.S.A. Learns »
Learn English online at this free site for beginning and intermediate learners. Listen to an introduction to the site in either English or Spanish.
- Literacy Volunteers of Illinois »
Literacy Volunteers of Illinois supports local volunteer literacy programs through referrals and training.