Spanish that Works is an eight-week group training program that teaches you and your staff to speak essential Spanish for the Library!
Libraries with the original group kit, .
About Spanish that Works for Libraries
Made for Libraries. Spanish that Works was originally written for librarians and library staff. The 265 page updated course text workbook explains basic structures using a core vocabulary of library-related words (name, pencil, street, take, etc.). Supplemental materials and activities introduce library-specific vocabulary (circulation desk, check-out, book drop) and reinforce application of essential structures in a library context. The 2014 Library Vocabulary Module includes new words, such as e-book, tablet, and streaming video. Spanish that Works is ideal for beginners, or for those who have studied grammar but want to learn how to speak.
Interactive. Emphasis is placed on active participation in group and pair work, which includes practice with flashcards and dialogue role-play. Participants learn how to do practical things with the language, such as how to ask for a library card, guide patrons to materials, or determine if a situation requires a translator.
Flexible. The course was designed for a small group (10-12 students), but the materials can be adapted to use in large-group Library Spanish Intro Workshop. Individual staff members may also work through the course text on their own using the videos; however, as the aim of the course is to build conversational fluency, they should have a bilingual coach check their pronunciation and they should work with a partner to practice the dialogues aloud.
Manageable. The entire course can be completed in as little as 16 hours, or about 2 hours per week for 8 weeks. There are no written tests, and you won’t have homework conjugating verbs or answering questions. All you are asked to do is to review vocabulary and dialogues between lessons.
A Good Investment. Over 75 libraries in 30 different states have used Spanish that Works with great success and found it to be beneficial on many different levels. Staff members taking the course feel empowered to be able to better help Latino patrons. Bilingual staff teaching the course receive valuable experience and recognition for their skills. Spanish-speaking patrons feel more welcome in the library and can more easily use the library’s services.
Economical. Libraries may purchase the “Spanish that Works for You” course text workbooks directly from The Learning Light at a For 10 books, the cost is only $19.22 per each. The reproducible Library Vocabulary Module (includes booklet and supplemental handouts delivered in pdf format) is $99 and includes a license to make free of charge one copy of the materials per each text workbook purchased. Videos of a native speaker from Mexico pronouncing the Library vocabulary, as well as a video clips from a Spanish that Works class done live-to-tape for community television, are available for $99 (includes flashdrive). Libraries using the “course text workbook may also purchase the “Spanish that Works in the Library” audio program tracks to the flashdrive for an additional $15.
Estimated Cost of Materials for a Library Staff Training
5 Staff Members – $325 Estimate includes 10 “Spanish that Works for You” course text workbooks, “Library Vocabulary Module” materials with license to make 10 copies for staff; video support materials, audio program, and shipping. Does not include copying costs of Library specialty vocabulary booklet and reference sheets (about 100 pages in total).
10 Staff Members $425 Estimated Cost – Includes 10 “Spanish that Works for You” course text workbooks, “Library Vocabulary Module” materials with license to make 10 copies for staff; video support materials, audio program, and shipping. Does not include copying costs of Library specialty vocabulary booklet and reference sheets (about 100 pages in total).
50 Staff Members – $1200 Estimated Cost – Includes 50 “Spanish that Works for You” course text workbooks, “Library Vocabulary Module” materials with license to make 50 copies for staff; video support materials, audio program, and shipping. Does not include copying costs of Library specialty vocabulary booklet and reference sheets (about 100 pages in total).
Need help deciding what’s right for you?
Please email Elizabeth Almann at or call 406-671-7622 with a description of your needs, and we will help you design a training package.
How to Purchase
Send us an email with the shipping and billing information, including purchase order number if you have one, to: . You should receive a confirmation that your order was received within one to two business days.
You may also mail a purchase request to: The Learning Light LLC; 123 Lewis Avenue; Billings, MT, 59101. Or call 406-671-7622.
Large Groups & Groups without an Instructor: Libraries doing large intro workshops may purchase the Library Vocabulary Module only and copy the materials on the honor system at $1 per student. Large groups should purchase individual copies of the “Spanish that Works for You” text workbook for their instructor.