One of Canton Public Library’s longest-running programs is our English Language Learner (ELL) series. We partner with the Plymouth-Canton Community Literacy Council (CLC) to offer ELL conversation groups both on Zoom and in person, a reading group and an advanced book club.
CLC trains and coordinates the wonderful volunteers who make this program possible, while we at the library provide space and support.
Every week, dozens of learners and six or more volunteer tutors participate in our ELL programs. In the past year, learners from our 25 different countries have improved their English skills, gained confidence, learned about American culture and made friends at the library. The tutors say they gain as much as the students from the experience.
Read on to hear from some of the tutors in their own words.
Stan:
"I have been a tutor for about 13 years. I became a tutor because I wanted to engage in a volunteer activity that would be of direct help to others. I am first-generation born in the United States, so I feel like I am enabling these learners just as others assisted my parents when they immigrated here many years ago.
One of my most memorable experiences was when one of my learners invited me to the Federal Courthouse downtown to witness him and others being sworn in as United States citizens. Though this was many years ago, I felt honored, and I appreciated his kindness in asking me to observe. I was very proud of him. It was a joyful experience for me as well."
Carol Ann:
"I've been working as a tutor with the CLC for 3 years. I have tutored one-on-one and now co-tutor conversation groups in person and on Zoom. I love working with our learners because they are so eager to learn and are incredible people with so much knowledge and experience to share. I admire their courage in coming to a new country and for asking for help to learn English.
I don't know if they realize that I learn from them, too, maybe more than they learn from me. I feel like I'm traveling the globe as I learn about their countries, cultures, and perspectives. Researching answers to their questions broadens and sharpens my own knowledge.
My conversation groups and student interactions are the high points of my week every week!"
Patti:
"I had known about the Literacy Council and the work they did for many years but did not have the time to commit to tutoring and the training until after I retired. I completed the training in early fall 2025.
Currently, on Fridays I lead a conversation group and a reading group in Canton, and on alternate Tuesdays I lead a conversation group in Belleville. Every week I learn new and interesting things about another country or culture."
Lori:
"I have been a one-on-one tutor and a conversation group leader for a year and a half. As a retired Social Studies teacher, I've always enjoyed teaching and learning about other cultures.
As the rhetoric in the United States with regard to immigration became more and more negative, I decided working with ELL students was something positive I could do that would help send a more welcoming message to the wonderful people who have immigrated here for all kinds of reasons. They all want their families to be safe and successful as they build a new home here.
Their commitment to learning to speak and write in English is admirable, and I am always surprised when they show up to Conversation Group on a day when it is raining cats and dogs, which is one of the first idioms they learn!"
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