The World Languages Center serves Houston’s diverse community by offering opportunities for learning, fun and access to technology in multiple languages. The World Languages Hubs in Neighborhood Libraries work with the World Languages Center at the Central Library to respond to the growth and mobility of a diverse, multicultural community in Houston.
Selected based on geographic location and on the number of residents in the area who speak languages other than English, these Hubs feature:
- Collections and programming reflective of the diverse languages and cultures of the community.
- Programs that assist new immigrants in adapting to life in America and that celebrate their native cultures.
- Creation & promotion of multicultural awareness throughout the library system with programming, resources and services.
- Websites and materials in collaboration with the World Languages Center.
- Staff with language skills available to assist customers with their information needs in languages other than English.
- Multilingual assistance by phone and other means for the Houston Public Library system
Through World Language Center the community will be able to engage in:
- Citizenship Classes
- Bi-lingual computer classes
- Access to Immigrant Resources (Info pass; referral to other agencies)
- Cultural Programs & workshops to increase intercultural awareness & understanding
- Information Literacy.
- Conversation Classes in five different languages: English, Spanish, French, Hindi, and German
- Access to computers with language tools.