Martin Library York, Pennsylvania http://www.yorklibraries.org/Our_Libraries/Martin/martin_library.htm Population Served: 500,000 Language other than English: 5.7% Project Contact: Karla Heberlig Project Title: ESL Resource Expansion Project Description: The grant enables Martin Library to increase literacy services to adult English language learners through an expanded English as a Second Language literature and CD collection.

Notable accomplishment, promising practices, or human interest stories: Furthering our relationship with the York County Literacy Council through this grant has been the most notable accomplishment. Martin Library created and delivered information bags for the York County Literacy Council to distribute to their 250 + ESL students. These bags contained a new ESL material bookmark (written in both English and Spanish), Martin Library brochure (written in both English and Spanish), brochure listing all of Martin Library’s ESL resources, free DVD coupon, and a free library card membership form (written in both English and Spanish). Our library exists so that lives may be bettered through reading, literacy and education. Collaborating with an agency who works on the front lines of adult literacy instruction is crucial to delivering the message to those who can’t read because of the language barrier.

Key lessons learned: Collaborate with as many organizations as possible. Bringing all necessary parties on board early on in the process is essential to success in this project. Keeping things as simple as possible makes the process more enjoyable for everyone.

Advice for other libraries serving adult English language learners: Collaborate with other service organizations who serve English language learners. The resources provided by the library are of value to each organization serving this population. Work together to raise awareness about these resources. It’s a win-win.