We are excited to kick off evening classes for adult English language learners with an Open House! Join us September 12, anytime during 6-8 PM to meet the teacher, learn about the classes, and enjoy light snacks and beverages.

The classes are for limited English proficient adults to help them learn to read, write, and speak English. Students will also have the opportunity to learn about what the library has to offer, and to work independently from home using Burlington English on their devices.

Classes (FREE!) are made possible through a generous grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, and provided by the AEFBC in collaboration with: 

• The Blount County Public Library

• The American Job Center of Blount County

• Welcoming Immigrant Neighbors Blount County (WIN-BC)

• Blount County Good Neighbors

• Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition

• Centro Hispano de East Tennessee

• Define American

• Allies of Knoxville's Immigrant Neighbors 

I have seen parents of local school students who want to be able to communicate better with their child's school and be able to advocate on their child's behalf as well as broaden their employment opportunities. Being able to speak two languages is a huge advantage in seeking a job.

~ Sherry Shurden Brewer

I have interpreted for numerous people who had to see a medical professional or had to negotiate a hospital bill. Not being able to speak English limits their ability to explain their symptoms, understand the doctor's explanations and instructions, or advocate for themselves. 

The adult ESL program is much needed in our community.  Thank you for your effort to make it a reality.

~ Milo Stanojevich