Donor support has helped the program expand to meet growing demand. In fall 2025, the program expanded from one Saturday class to two classes divided by skill level, doubling the number of students served. Even with the additional class, enrollment remains full and waitlists continue to grow.
“While expanding to two classes has stretched our budget, offering these classes is deeply connected to the library’s mission to spark literacy, foster curiosity, and support the community,” said Jenna Assmus, Community Engagement Librarian at Goodman South Madison Library.
The Saturday schedule plays an important role in making the program accessible. “Goodman Library Community English classes are particularly impactful and popular because they’re offered on Saturday mornings. This schedule reduces barriers to participation that many of our students face,” said Bex Fabrizio, Director of ESL Group Instruction.
“We hear from students all the time that they can only take class on Saturdays due to work schedules or childcare arrangements.
For many participants, the class becomes a gateway to the library itself. By the end of the semester, nearly every student has a library card and is actively using library resources for learning, job searching, family support, and personal enrichment.
“Students come to class with many different experiences and expectations of libraries,” said Assmus. “It’s exciting to introduce them to the wide range of free resources Madison Public Library offers, especially digital materials that support lifelong learning.”
“Beyond books and classes,” Assmus continues, “the library provides a trusted public space where privacy, freedom of information, and equitable access are core values.”
The classes also help foster connections among people from many different backgrounds. This spring’s students spoke ten different first languages and represented 17 home countries. While English instruction is the focus, participants often find something equally valuable: a sense of belonging.
At the end of last semester, an intermediate level student, Octavio, shared, “My life is changed. I don’t feel afraid when I go to the supermarket, the library, or other places. In this country it’s difficult to find friends, people are shy and keep to themselves. But here [in this class] I found friends.”
Octavio also recently reached his goal of getting a new job after studying in the program for 6 months. He uses English in his new role and shared that this class helped him improve communication on the job. In fact, 12 students reported obtaining new jobs during the semester, and 100 percent of surveyed participants said the class helped them feel more confident communicating in English.
Assmus has witnessed that growth firsthand. “One of the most rewarding parts of the program is seeing students return semester after semester and grow from beginner to intermediate learners,” she said.
“Many become familiar faces at the library and continue using library resources long after class ends. In the intermediate class, attendance sometimes drops over the semester because students are starting new jobs, a sign that growing confidence and stronger English skills are helping them move toward new opportunities.”
Thanks to supporters like you, Community English students are building language skills, expanding opportunities, and strengthening connections to their community. Every class helps open doors to employment, friendship, and lifelong learning.
If expanding access to community-centered programs like Community English one is meaningful to you, consider making a gift today.
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