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Libraries closed Monday 28 October

All our libraries will be closed Monday 28 October for the Labour Day public holiday.

Ngā akoranga Ingarihi - Learning English

Explore our range of online resources, books and regular events to help with learning English.

About the Learning English collection

Our Learning English collection has books as well as some book and CD kits. The collection is divided into three levels of ability. Each level is colour-coded - yellow for beginners, blue for intermediate and purple for advanced.

Some of the subjects covered include:

  • Grammar, vocabulary, spelling, mathematics, reading and writing.
  • Pronunciation, speaking, listening and communicating in English.
  • Studying for English examinations, such as IELTS and TOEFL.
  • Day to day life in New Zealand.

The collection also contains books or book and CD sets for leisure reading. These are available both in fiction and non-fiction, from beginner to advanced levels.

Where can I find them?

The Learning English collections can be found at six of our libraries:

Learning English books are issued for three weeks and kits are issued for four weeks. All Learning English materials are issued free of charge.

Search tips

To find Learning English books in our catalogue, click on Advanced Search and under 'Call number', type in 'Learning English'. Once you've done this, you can then limit your search by typing in the subject area of what you are looking for, e.g. vocabulary.

Learning English material is very popular and often what you want will already be on loan. You can reserve it using the catalogue. If you need a librarian to show you how, we are here to help!

Let's Talk in English sessions

Improve your social English at our free sessions. Chat and improve your English conversation skills with other learners. It's informal and fun!

These sessions are held weekly at Johnsonville and Kilbirnie libraries. Find a session on our calendar.

Our staff will help you find books and CDs to help you learn English. You can also meet other learners and practice your English conversation.

Online databases

We have a number of online databases for learning English.

If you have any feedback about this page or would like to suggest a resource, we'd love to hear from you! You can contact us on enquiries@wcl.govt.nz.

Please also ask for assistance from any staff member at any time. We're always pleased to help.