PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – How can one manage in the US without speaking English? That’s a question for 11% of Philadelphia’s population—identified by the US Census as foreign born adults. For immigrants, learning English is not easy and knowing how to speak well is a requisite for almost any available job.

“Let’s Speak English,” a program now being offered at eleven branches of the Free Library of Philadelphia, including Parkway Central, is responding to that need, with conversational English classes mornings, afternoons and evenings in all the city’s regions.

Discussion topics are determined by group interest; however, possible conversations will likely include food, holidays, customs, shopping, travel, American slang and just small talk. The intent is to provide a stress-free environment for international adults who now call Philadelphia home, to practice communication skills and gain confidence in speaking.

Weekly informal meetings are free but advance registration is required. Those interested in participating in this special opportunity should stop by their local library or call for information.

All locations are listed on FreeLibrary.org.

Reported By Dr. Marciene Mattleman, KYW Newsradio