WESTFIELD — The Westfield Memorial Library has announced that cardholders can now learn American Sign Language (ASL) through the library’s popular online platform Mango Languages. The library is located at 550 East Broad Street.
According to Mango, ASL is the most requested language at the platform and the third most popular studied language in the country. The curriculum offered through Mango is designed around the American Sign Language Teachers Association Standards and offers self-paced courses that are created to meet every patron’s learning speed. Cardholders can access ASL on Mango by visiting https:// wmlnj.org/mango/ and setting up an account.
Taught by a variety of sign models, the lessons feature a “Magic Mirror” which enables students to watch themselves signing for instant visual comparison. The lessons are practical and quickly allow patrons to carry on basic ASL conversations, while the content includes Cultural and Grammar Notes, Vocabulary andAutomatically Graded Review.
“I’m so pleased with the addition of American Sign Language to our Mango Language database,” said Jen Schulze, head of Adult Services. “Many people have loved ones who are deaf or hearing-impaired, andASL on Mango can provide them with a free and unique opportunity to learn how to communicate.”
To learn more about library programs and services or to sign up for a library card, visit the library’s website at https://wmlnj.org/. Currently, library hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
