U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

From ESOL classes offered by our award-winning Literacy Project to computer and tech classes held in the new Computer Learning Lab at the Main Library, we offer a variety of classes to improve your English Language and computer skills. Our classes are taught by volunteers, free and open to the public, and do not require registration. Take a look at our Calendar of Events to see what is scheduled next.

How to Start

  1. Are you interested in taking an English as Second Language course or a computer course? Our Literacy Center offers ESOL and computer/tech classes in various levels at the Main Library and all Branch Locations. Determine what level is  appropriate for you, or call the Literacy Center and we will help you to choose the appropriate level. 
  2. To sign up for a class, call the Main Library or the Branch Library where the class is offered to inquire If there is space in the class, if registration is required and how you can sign up for the class. 
  3. If the class is full, ask to be included on the waiting list if there is one. Feel free to inquire if the class is offered at another Branch Library and if you can take the class there.

Requirements

We offer 4 levels of ESOL classes:

  • Low Beginner - This level is suitable for students who have no experience with English and want to learn the basics. Covers basic vocabulary on greetings and personal introductions, transactions involving money, telling time, taking public transportation, and health.
  • High Beginner - Suitable for students who already have some basic speaking ability. At this level students will learn verb tenses and participate in vocabulary building activities.
  • Intermediate - Best for students with good conversational skills who wish to increase their vocabulary and improve spoken grammar. Students at this level study higher level grammar concepts and learn to read text. 
  • Advanced - For students who are strong in spoken English and want to fine-tune their skills. Students in advanced classes will engage in debates, group discussions, presentations, and  will study complex grammar concepts.

Computer Classes 

The Literacy Project offers computer classes at the Main Library throughout the year. Classes fill on a first-come, first-served basis and no registration is required. 

Volunteer Opportunities for ESOL Instructors

Volunteers make it possible for us to offer English as a Second Language classes. Volunteers serve as teachers, tutors, and classroom assistants. A typical volunteer commitment is 2 hours per week. Opportunities are available days, evenings and weekends. If you are interested in volunteering or for more information, please contact Maria Balestrieri by phone at 617-349-4013 or by email at  mbalestrieri@cambridgema.gov.

Technology Classes

Take technology classes at the Library in a friendly, learning environment. Whether you are new to using computers or looking to grow your skills, we are here to help you get started. 

View the calendar for upcoming technology classes

Contact Us

How can we help?

Please provide as much detail below as possible so City staff can respond to your inquiry:

As a governmental entity, the Massachusetts Public Records Law applies to records made or received by the City. Any information received through use of this site is subject to the same provisions as information provided on paper.

Read our complete privacy statement


Service Requests

Enter a service request via SeeClickFix for things like missed trash pickups, potholes, etc., click here