Neighbor News
SBPL Receives $66K Grant for Adult and Digital Literacy
The South Brunswick Public Library was awarded a $66,000 Community Library Adult Literacy and Career Pathway grant from the N.J. Department
The South Brunswick Public Library was awarded a $66,000 Community Library Adult Literacy and Career Pathway grant from the N.J. Department of Labor earlier this year.
This is the fourth consecutive cycle that SBPL has received this funding, which primarily goes towards providing English language learning classes (ESL) through the Library’s English Institute program, as well as digital literacy workforce development instruction.
The library’s ESL classes are leveled, intensive classes that provide instruction in reading, speaking and understanding the English language and are led by experienced teachers.
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“The majority of our students increase a full National Reporting System (NRS) level in listening and reading English,” said Head of Information Services Jill D’Amico., who manages the program.
ESL classes has always been in high demand at the Library. According to the 2020 Census, 23% of the residents living in South Brunswick report being able to speak English “less than very well.”
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“Oftentimes people just want to increase their confidence in speaking English,” said D’Amico. “But over the past few years we’ve had a much greater variety of non-English speakers seeking services, which meant we really had to go back to basics. This most recent funding cycle has allowed us to offer beginner-level classes for the first time, which have been very successful.”
Digital literacy – another way of saying one has the skills to communicate and collaborate via digital media platforms, such as navigating online applications and programs – is another focus of this program. To this end, SBPL has hired Victoria Cardieri as our Digital Literacy Coordinator. She will assist with one-on-one computer and device help and will lead classes on computer programs, online skills, and job searching.
The end goal is not only to help English language learners but also anyone looking for a job, who wants to advance in their career, or utilize credentials they received outside the U.S.
If you are interested in receiving services or have questions, contact Jill D’Amico at 732-329-4000 X7638 or e-mail jdamico@sbpl.info
