Libraries may find that some of the patrons in their community speak a language other than English. There are a variety of resources that can assist library staff as they work to provide library services to these patrons.
What Is a Public Library?
Some people coming to Vermont from other countries may not be aware of all that a public library in Vermont has to offer. With IMLS ARPA funding, VTLIB is providing a document that outlines basic public library services that has been translated into some of the most commonly spoken languages other than English in Vermont. We also provide the document in English for library staff to refer to:
Editable versions (libraries can add their own logos and contact information) and PDF versions are available:
- Arabic: Editable version, PDF version
- Bosnian: Editable version, PDF version
- Burmese: Editable version, PDF version
- Chinese: Editable version, PDF version
- Croatian: Editable version, PDF version
- Dari: Editable version, PDF version
- French: Editable version, PDF version
- Kirundi: Editable version, PDF version
- Nepali: Editable version, PDF version
- Pashto: Editable version, PDF version
- Russian: Editable version, PDF version
- Serbian: Editable version, PDF version
- Somali: Editable version, PDF version
- Spanish: Editable version, PDF version
- Swahili: Editable version, PDF version
- Vietnamese: Editable version, PDF version
Translation and Interpreter Services
Please note that these organizations are on the state's established list of statewide contracts. While public libraries do not have access to state-negotiated pricing, these suppliers have been vetted by the Vermont Office of Purchasing and Contracts (OPC). These suppliers are often willing to work with other entities of the state and offer competitive pricing.
- Association of Africans Living in Vermont: AALV helps new Americans from all parts of the world gain independence in their new communities through a range of integration services.
- U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants Vermont: Provides newly arrived refugees with a comprehensive set of linguistically and culturally appropriate services, with a goal of attaining self-sufficiency.
- Corporate Translation Services Inc. DBA Language Link: Delivers a full suite of translation, interpretation, and localization solutions.
- Telelanguage Inc.: Provides interpretation and translation services.
- Worldwide Interpreters Inc.: Provides on-demand phone interpretation to local governments, hospitals, and businesses across the United States.
English Language Learners
- LINCS Literacy Information and Communication System: Free online courses on English Language Acquisition for teachers of adult ESOL classes.
- USA Learns: Free online lessons for English Language Learners and Citizenship Preparation.
- Vermont Adult Learning: VAL teaches English Language Learners skills to advance educationally and at work.
- Central Vermont Adult Basic Education: CVABE offers instruction in English language that prepares the student for U.S. citizenship.