FREE English Classes at the New York Public Library
English Classes Beginning January 3rd
The New York Public Library helps adult students improve their communication skills in English. We offer two types of English classes, available at more than 40 libraries in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.
These are series-based classes, held year-round in 10-week cycles. Most classes meet two days each week, for two hours each day. Select classes meet on Saturday mornings for four hours. Classes are for beginner, intermediate, and advanced level students. To register for classes, click here.
ESOL Classes: for non-native speakers to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Adult Basic Education Classes: for students who already speak English but want to improve their reading and writing.
English for Work Classes: for Intermediate and Advanced speakers looking for work or already employed and want a better job.
Information Sessions
At the Information Session, you will make an appointment to register for classes.
Please note:
Classes are open to adults.
Testing is required for placement.
Documentation is not required.
Space is limited.
Children are not allowed at registration.
View our schedule of upcoming Information Sessions. For the most current information available regarding these classes, please ask at your local branch.
Informal English Conversation Classes: We Speak NYC
Discover our full calendar of classes!
No registration required! Just sign up online and meet in person!
Intermediate and advanced level English language learners practice English by watching We Speak NYC videos and talking about them. Enjoy fun, interactive activities! Talk about New York City, current events, family life, and holidays — and meet other adult ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners from around the world.
Sign-up opens 2 weeks before each class!
Please note: NO informal classes December 23-January 2. Classes restart on January 3, 2022. Happy Holidays!
Intermediate-Level Conversation Classes:
Mondays from 2–4 PM
Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 PM
Fridays from 2:30–4:30 PM
Advanced-Level Conversation Classes:
Tuesdays from 1–3 PM
Wednesdays from 5:30–7:30 PM
Thursdays from 2:30–4:30 PM
Intermediate-Level Conversation Classes in January:
Monday, Jan. 3: 10 AM-12 PM
Friday, Jan. 7: 2:30-4:30 PM
Monday, Jan. 10: 2:30-4:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 14: 2:30-4:30 PM
Tuesday, Jan. 18: 5:30-7:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 21: 2:30-4:30 PM
Monday, Jan. 24: 2-4 PM
Tuesday, Jan. 25: 5:30-7:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 28: 2:30-4:30 PM
Monday, Jan. 31: 2-4 PM
Advanced-Level Conversation Classes in January:
Thursday, Jan. 6: 2:30-4:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 7: 10 AM-12 PM
Thursday, Jan. 13: 2:30-4:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 14: 10 AM-12 PM
Wednesday, Jan. 19: 1:30-3:30 PM
Thursday, Jan. 20: 2:30-4:30 PM
Friday, Jan. 21: 10 AM-12 PM
Tuesday, Jan. 25: 1-3 PM
Wednesday, Jan. 26: 5:30-7:30 PM
Thursday, Jan. 27: 2:30-4:30 PM