Language & English as a Second Language
The following are resources we've compiled to help you learn English, earn your HiSET (formerly the GED®), or improve your reading skills.
Your 14-digit library barcode may be required to access some of our resources.
Tewksbury Public Library Resources
ESL Books available at TPL - We are always adding more resources to our ESL collection in the library. You can see all of our titles at this link, or browse the entire collection by heading to the Nonfiction section on the second floor, under Languages / ESL. Staff at the Reference Desk are available to help!
Online Resources
Mango Languages
Mango Languages - A convenient and comprehensive way to learn a new language or strengthen your English skills. ESL Resources Available for over 20 source languages!
NEW ASL Inside - With Mango, learn American Sign Language. Click here to search for "ASL" and get started today!
Voice of America
Voice of America - Online English lessons, instructions for filling out forms, etc. for beginners. Vocabulary builder for advanced students of ESL
Transparent Language Online
Transparent Language Online - Empowers you to learn anywhere, anytime, for any language goal with 100+ languages. Access to this resource is provided to TPL by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and by the Massachusetts Library System.
Local Classes
Boston Public Library's English for Speakers of Other Languages
Classes are available at a variety of BPL Branches throughout Boston, please check the above link for more details on specific class offerings and locations.
Boston, MA
Contact: (617) 859-2446
Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association of Greater Lowell, Inc.
465 School St.
Lowell, MA
Contact: (978) 454-6200
Literacy Volunteers of Massachusetts at Pollard Memorial Library
401 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA
Contact: Sarah Miller, Adult Literacy Program Director (978) 674-1541
Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers
1046 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA
Contact: (617) 864-7600
Merrimack Valley Immigrant & Education Center
439 S Union Street
Lawrence, MA
Contact: (978) 683-7316
Last updated December 2023
Listening Practice
Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Practice
Real English Videos
University of Michigan-Flint Listening Practice Guide
Randall's Cyberlistening Lab
Intermediate to Advanced Levels
Voice of America (VOA) American Stories
Speaking Practice
Pronunciation Practice
Reading & Academic Practice
Vocabulary Practice
Further Resources
English at Large
Provides free English instruction (ESOL/ESL) to immigrant adults throughout 21 Boston-area communities.
Massachusetts Adult Literacy Hotline
Provides referrals to over 300 adult education programs that offer one-on-one tutoring and small-group or classroom instruction to adult learners.44 Farnsworth Street, Boston, MA Contact: (800) 447-8844
HiSET Educational Testing Service
Provides all the information you need about the High School Equivalency Testing Program (formerly the GED®).