Language, Culture, and Community
For Language Learners and new friends from distant places
Brooks Memorial Library celebrates the many cultures that enrich our community. We collaborate with cultural, educational, and service agencies in Brattleboro and throughout Vermont. Here are some of our resources.
Start with a library card
You don’t need a card to visit the library. People come to read, ask questions, attend programs, use computers, and much more.
But with a library card, you can borrow things like books, kitchen tools, and free passes to museums and parks. You can also use the special online and mobile resources on this page. The services that require a library card are marked with an asterisk. *
Language learning and practice apps
The library has two language apps that can be used on computers or mobile devices. They don’t replace formal instruction, but they’re great for practicing your language skills! For more details, see the Language Resources video, or follow the links below.
Pronunciator lets you choose from lots of different home languages, including many languages spoken in Brattleboro. Then, you can find lessons in 165+ other languages, including English and American Sign Language. Free with a Brooks Memorial Library card.
The Pronunciator mobile app is called Bluebird. Find it free in the App Store or Google Play.
Bluebird Tip: Start by registering with Pronunciator on a computer, using the link above. Then use the same user name and password to sign in to Bluebird.
Another great tool with lessons in 70+ languages, accessible on a computer or through the Mango mobile app. Mango is especially strong in English and Spanish. Free with a library card.
Mango Tip: for Spanish speakers learning English, Mango has a special set of lessons focused on job applications and business.
Practice language skills with movies!
Enjoy free films from many countries. Includes Kanopy Kids for children’s movies.
Kanopy lets you search by language. In addition to English, you’ll find titles that include these languages:
- Farsi, Spanish (many)
- Amharic, Dari (some)
- Pashtu, Swahili, Tigrinya (a few)
To see all the languages, sign up for Kanopy and browse.
Kanopy Tips:
When you register, Kanopy will ask you for your library name. It’s Brooks Memorial Library.
Then it will ask for:
- Library card number. This is on the back of your card. It is 14 digits long.
- PIN number. Library staff members assign your 4-digit PIN number when you sign up for a card. Please write it down to keep track!
Finally, Kanopy will ask you to provide your name and email address and make up a password.
If you have any problems registering for Kanopy or any of these services, please let us know! We’re happy to help. Ask a Librarian
Career skills and exam practice: video courses
Free classes: core skills, resumes, and exams
Self-paced instruction in core skills, including preparation for the TOEFL, IELTS, and many other exams. Includes easy online tools for writing resumes and preparing for job interviews. Free with a library card.
Free classes: sharpen your career and tech skills
Video instruction to explore and expand your knowledge in many career fields. Prepare for exams, including detailed courses for the TOEFL and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Free with a library card.
Living in Vermont/USA: free resources
Vermont Language Justice Project
VLJP “allows people with language access needs the ability to make informed decisions about their health and safety as well as navigating everyday life in the USA. We do this by creating public service videos in 19 of the languages spoken here in Vermont. ” including a selection of legal and rights-based resources.
The Immigrant Legal Resource Center is a national organization based in California that maintains a Know Your Rights Toolkit to help community members stay safe under the law.
Library services and programs for all ages
The Children’s Room
All families are welcome in the Children’s Room!
Here are some things you can do:
- Read, play, and enjoy the library space.
- Meet our librarians, who will help you find what you need.
- *Borrow books, movies, and CDs.
- Browse the Welcoming Library shelves, which have picture books in many languages.
- Attend events for children and families, like Rhyme Time, Sing & Dance with Robin, Legopalooza, and many more all through the year.
- Take home a craft bag with materials to make a craft at home.
International Community in Brattleboro
The MCC “empower[s] newcomers to build a better life for themselves and their families by fostering cultural understanding and promoting integration into the community.” It is a project of the Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC).
In October 2024, the MCC will move from its current home on Estey Street to the campus at the School for International Training on Kipling Road in Brattleboro.
For further information, contact vermontinfo@ecdcus.org or 802-490-3943.
VAL offers FREE individualized instruction via classroom, small group and 1:1 tutoring in the following areas:
- English Language Learning (ELL)
- Essential Skills (Reading, Writing, Grammar, Math, Digital Literacy)
- High School Completion
- General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
- Workforce Readiness and Development
- Transition to College and Career Readiness
(802) 257-9449
info@vtadultlearning.org
Text VAL to 33-900-0907
- Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Friday: By Appointment
Questions? We’re happy to help.
