Language Resources
The library is uniquely positioned to help advance the goals of diversity, inclusion and equitable access for everyone by providing the space and tools to acquire skills in a new language, translate written texts or interpret a verbal speech. Kent District Library has embraced this opportunity and provides several services and materials available for all patrons and partner organizations.
Learn a Language
These free databases provide plenty of options for ESL students or foreign language learners including portable apps for easy access and progress tracking.
Language Learning Tools
Rosetta Stone
ASLdeafined
Language Learning Video Courses
Learn English (ESL)
These free databases provide plenty of options for ESL students or foreign language learners including portable apps for easy access and progress tracking.
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone
SPARK: Books for Adult Beginning Readers
All KDL locations offer the same assortment of about 90 titles, organized by the CASAS reading levels A (beginner) through D (advanced).
The SPARK collection was the result of KDL’s partnership with the Literacy Center of West Michigan.
Other Tools
TBS Scanner text-to-text translations
Using the best available technology, patrons in all branches can now read and understand or write texts in a different language. This service does not replace the use of a professional translator but can help bridge the most basic communication gaps.
Interpretation equipment
The library offers radio and digital simultaneous interpretation equipment to be used by a professional interpreter hired for this purpose. To access this service please contact CommunityEngagementEmail@kdl.org. Or call the Community Engagement department directly on 616-647-4143