English as a Second Language (ESL) learners
are people that do not speak the English language; they are typically immigrants. This population group needs special programs
in the library because of their inexperience with the language. If the library can give them the resources to
learn then they will be able to use more of the services in the library and the
community. ESL learners are a population
that has already existed in St. Bernard, but one that grew after Hurricane Katrina.
They are also underserved. These people face many challenges as ESL learners because they barely know or do not know at all the English
language. Some of them do not want to
put their pride on the line to ask for help.
This can become a challenge for them and for the people that are helping
them.
They need services
that help them learn the English language and to help them get accustomed to
the area. Some of the services that
would help are: English language classes, grammar classes, conversation
partners and groups, citizenship classes, immigration workshops, etc. For some of these programs the library can
reach out to the community and local schools to help with the services.
When the library notices the
increase of the ESL population then they should perform a community
analysis. This will help them focus on what
the community needs and it will allow them to gain more information. Once the library does this then they can
develop their collection to better serve the community. This may be when the library has to buy more
books for the growing population; not just
books about that population, but books to help them. Also the library can have information
available on topics that they would need, like immigration, citizenship,
finding jobs, etc.
 |
| (McMahon, 2013) |
Sources
McMahon, C.
(January 22, 2013). Push In Versus Pull Out in E.S.L.. The Educator's Room — "A
fresh, innovative perspective on education.". Retrieved April 24,
2013, from
http://theeducatorsroom.com/2013/01/push-in-versus-pull-out-in-e-s-l/
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