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Image for event: Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English

Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English

2025-01-15 18:00:00 2025-01-15 19:00:00 America/Chicago Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English Did you know you can learn English for free at the library? Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom

Wednesday, January 15
6:00pm - 7:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-01-15 18:00:00 2025-01-15 19:00:00 America/Chicago Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English Did you know you can learn English for free at the library? Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom

Ladd Library

Opportunity Center Classroom

Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?

Is English not your first language and you are interested in improving your communication skills?

Or maybe English IS your first language and you are interested in helping new members of the community learn and practice English?

If one of those statements is true, check out Conversation Group, an English language practice group in the Opportunity Center!

    Who should attend Conversation Groups at the library?

    • Adult English language learners who want to practice their English speaking skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.
    • Native English language users who want to help new members of the community by engaging in conversation to practice their English skills.

    Conversation Group focuses more on conversation rather than formal instruction, allowing participants to:

    • Practice speaking: Engage in discussions on various topics, helping to build fluency and confidence.
    • Improve listening skills: Learn to understand different accents and speaking styles from fellow participants and facilitators.
    • Enhance vocabulary: Discover new words and phrases through real-life conversations.
    • Cultural exchange: Share experiences and insights, fostering understanding among participants from diverse backgrounds.
    • Social interaction: Build friendships and community connections in a friendly setting.

    Groups are led by a facilitator and may include structured activities, games, or open discussions, catering to different proficiency levels.

    No need to register. Email the Opportunity Center if you have questions at opportunitycenter@crlibrary.org.

    AGE GROUP: | Adult |

    EVENT TYPE: | Other | Job Skills Training |

    TAGS: | |

    Ladd Library

    Phone: 319.261.READ

    Hours
    Mon, Nov 18 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Tue, Nov 19 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Wed, Nov 20 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Thu, Nov 21 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Fri, Nov 22 9:00AM to 5:00PM
    Sat, Nov 23 9:00AM to 5:00PM
    Sun, Nov 24 1:00PM to 5:00PM

    About the branch

    The Ladd Library is located at 3750 Williams Blvd SW and is a 16,000 square foot facility. It features one community room with space for up to 50 people, which can be utilized for meetings and special events. The Ladd Library has a wonderful collection of materials, public computers, a children's library, and space to sit and read or tables to work or gather.

    Upcoming Events

    Thu, Nov 21, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Created by Zumba and BabyFirst for kids ages 0-4, the Zumbini program combines music, dance, and educational tools for 30 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning, and fun!

    Thu, Nov 21, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.

    Thu, Nov 21, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Learn about some of the best online resources for job searching, how to avoid scams, and the importance of monitoring your online presence.

    Thu, Nov 21, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
    Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.

    Thu, Nov 21, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Trained, certified therapy dogs provide companionship to emerging readers as they earn a free library book and bookmark. Everyone is welcome to read to the dogs. Stay for a performance at 7 p.m.!

    Fri, Nov 22, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute play and connection time.

    Fri, Nov 22, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    Learn and practice the gentle forms of Tai Chi in this 12-week series with Bryan Bruner of Heritage Area Agency on Aging. Skills will build on each other from the first session to the last.

    Fri, Nov 22, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Arts, movement, and music for youth and their caregivers. This program is geared to pre K to second graders.

    Sat, Nov 23, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Create a couple of thank you cards for a friend or family member! Registration required.
    Registration is now closed

    Mon, Nov 25, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.

    Mon, Nov 25, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Mon, Nov 25, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.

    Mon, Nov 25, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    School age students are invited to participate in an exciting hands-on STEAM activity each week. Activities designed for 2nd-5th graders.

    Tue, Nov 26, 9:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Review basics ideas on how to present your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a professional way on a resume to capture the attention of potential employers!

    Tue, Nov 26, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!

    Wed, Nov 27, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.

    Wed, Nov 27, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Wed, Nov 27, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Downtown Library - Union
    An hour of crafts, games, and more for teens and tweens.

    Cancelled
    Wed, Nov 27, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library
    Take charge of your financial future by attending free financial education classes with First Interstate Bank at the Opportunity Center.

    Wed, Nov 27, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
    Downtown Library - Union
    Put your card game skills to the test in a casual play environment. Magic The Gathering and Pokémon TCG cards provided.

    Wed, Nov 27, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!

    Cancelled
    Wed, Nov 27, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?

    Thu, Nov 28, All day
    Downtown Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.

    Thu, Nov 28, All day
    Ladd Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.

    Fri, Nov 29, All day
    Downtown Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.

    Fri, Nov 29, All day
    Ladd Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.

    Sat, Nov 30, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
    Downtown Library - Conference Room
    Come play some tabletop games with us! Bring your favorite indie RPG to share with the group or try a new game that one of our GMs has prepared. No experience necessary.

    Cancelled
    Sat, Nov 30, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
    Downtown Library
    Are you socially anxious, introverted, new in town, or just looking for an easy way to meet new people? Join us to play board games and have fun! (Knowing how to play games is not required.)

    Sat, Nov 30, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
    Join us for this uplifting sound meditation with Natalie Brown of Sounds Heal Studio and feel calmness and freedom from worries and stress during this busy season.

    Sun, Dec 01, All day
    Ladd Library Gallery
    View a collection of pastel and acrylic paintings by local artist Ron Wick. This exhibit will be on display December through February.

    Sun, Dec 01, All day
    Third Floor Gallery
    Jack Hayes' original paintings range in the spectrum of style from abstract to non-objective and very small to very large. This exhibit will be on display December through February.

    Sun, Dec 01, All day
    Skywalk Gallery
    View a collection of altered books created by intergenerational community members, facilitated by Jim Jacobmeyer. This exhibit will be on display December through February.

    Mon, Dec 02, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.

    Mon, Dec 02, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Mon, Dec 02, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.

    Mon, Dec 02, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    School-age kids are invited to solve a mystery scavenger hunt! Meet in the Children's Program Room to receive instructions first. Geared toward K-5th grade students.

    Tue, Dec 03, 9:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Review basics ideas on how to present your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a professional way on a resume to capture the attention of potential employers.

    Tue, Dec 03, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Unconference Room
    Reading and good conversation in a relaxed atmosphere

    Tue, Dec 03, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!

    Tue, Dec 03, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
    Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
    Teens will learn how to use the 3D printer and Tinkercad to create their own 3D designs. They'll be able to learn at their own pace and set their creative direction.

    Tue, Dec 03, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Calling all true crime and murder mystery fans. Put on your detective hat and join other sleuths to solve a mystery at the library.

    Wed, Dec 04, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.

    Wed, Dec 04, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Wed, Dec 04, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Take charge of your financial future by attending free financial education classes with First Interstate Bank at the Opportunity Center.

    Wed, Dec 04, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    Adventurers await! Bring your Level 1, Fifth Edition Character and see what adventures unfold. Continue questing to level up your character and see what mysteries you may uncover.

    Wed, Dec 04, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!

    Wed, Dec 04, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?

    Thu, Dec 05, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.

    Thu, Dec 05, 1:00pm - 1:45pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Join us for a beginner level chair yoga class with Tammy Bayer from Toula Yoga. Tammy will adapt the class as needed to fit your needs and mobility levels.

    Thu, Dec 05, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    Chat with staff of the Civil Rights Commission about your concerns and questions.

    Thu, Dec 05, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    The Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees meets the first Thursday of each month at 4 pm for their regular meeting.

    Thu, Dec 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Downtown Library - Unconference Room
    Fiction and non-fiction selections that are for and about women. This is not a women-only group – all new members are welcome! 

    Thu, Dec 05, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.

    Thu, Dec 05, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
    Looking for ways to practice mindfulness with your kids? Bring the entire family for a fun-filled evening doing yoga, playing games that increase mindfulness, and making a sensory bottle to take home.

    Fri, Dec 06, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.

    Fri, Dec 06, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Arts, movement, and music for youth and their caregivers. This program is geared to pre-K to second graders.

    Sat, Dec 07, 9:00am - 4:00pm
    Cherry Building
    Purchase new and gently used giftable books in support of the Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library during the Very Cherry Holiday event.

    Sat, Dec 07, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Let's bring on the snow! Join us for a story time that celebrates the wonders of snow including stories, songs, and parachute activities!

    Sat, Dec 07, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    Join us before attending the city tree lighting in Greene Square. Activities in the library Commons will include festive crafts to get you in the spirit!

    Mon, Dec 09, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.

    Mon, Dec 09, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Mon, Dec 09, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.

    Mon, Dec 09, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Kids are invited to use their artistic creativity with stencils! Materials provided, but kids are welcome to bring or cut out their own stencils. Geared towards K-5th students.

    Tue, Dec 10, 9:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Review basics ideas on how to present your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a professional way on a resume to capture the attention of potential employers.

    Tue, Dec 10, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!

    Tue, Dec 10, 11:00am - 6:00pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    Join Amnesty International in this annual letter writing opportunity to support human rights around the world.

    Tue, Dec 10, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    Drop in to make a cozy craft, enjoy some tea or hot cocoa, and try a family and beginner-friendly cozy role-playing game.

    Tue, Dec 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Newcomers always welcome to this general interest book club.

    Wed, Dec 11, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Take charge of your financial future by attending free financial education classes with First Interstate Bank at the Opportunity Center.

    Wed, Dec 11, 4:30pm - 6:30pm
    Downtown Library - Union
    Put your card game skills to the test in a casual play environment. Magic The Gathering and Pokémon TCG cards provided.

    Wed, Dec 11, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!

    Wed, Dec 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?

    Thu, Dec 12, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.

    Thu, Dec 12, 1:00pm - 1:45pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Join us for a beginner level chair yoga class. Tammy will adapt the class as needed to fit your needs and mobility levels.
    This event is full

    Thu, Dec 12, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Practice common interview questions, improve your impromptu conversations skills, and talk about the “unwritten rules” of interviewing.

    Thu, Dec 12, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
    Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.

    Thu, Dec 12, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    See how the library's laser cutters create beautiful wood projects and learn how to sign-up to use them. Paint and put together a cute bonsai tree. Registration required.
    This event is full

    Fri, Dec 13, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.

    Sat, Dec 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    The Public is invited to participate and enjoy! Please note that seating is extremely limited, however there is plenty of standing room and people are welcome to bring their own chairs.

    Mon, Dec 16, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.

    Mon, Dec 16, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Mon, Dec 16, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Join us for a free community game of Bingo! First come, first play, with all necessary materials provided. There is no contribution, monetary or otherwise, required to play.

    Mon, Dec 16, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.

    Tue, Dec 17, 9:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Review basics ideas on how to present your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a professional way on a resume to capture the attention of potential employers.

    Tue, Dec 17, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!

    Tue, Dec 17, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
    Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
    Teens will learn how to use the 3D printer and Tinkercad to create their own 3D designs. They'll be able to learn at their own pace and set their creative direction.

    Tue, Dec 17, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Calling all true crime and murder mystery fans. Put on your detective hat and join other sleuths to solve a mystery at the library.

    Wed, Dec 18, 11:00am - 12:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Get ready to unlock your potential and take the next step in your career!

    Wed, Dec 18, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Take charge of your financial future by attending free financial education classes with First Interstate Bank at the Opportunity Center.

    Wed, Dec 18, 4:00pm - 7:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    Adventurers await! Bring your Level 1, Fifth Edition Character and see what adventures unfold. Continue questing to level up your character and see what mysteries you may uncover.

    Wed, Dec 18, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!

    Wed, Dec 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?

    Thu, Dec 19, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.

    Thu, Dec 19, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Learn about some of the best online resources for job searching, how to avoid scams, and the importance of monitoring your online presence.

    Thu, Dec 19, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
    Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.

    Thu, Dec 19, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Trained, certified therapy dogs provide companionship to emerging readers as they earn a free library book and bookmark. Everyone is welcome to read to the dogs. Stay for a performance at 7 p.m.!

    Fri, Dec 20, 9:30am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.

    Fri, Dec 20, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Arts, movement, and music for youth and their caregivers. This program is geared to pre-K to second graders.

    Sat, Dec 21, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Join us for an active music-making class with Carly Schieffer of Orchestra Iowa's Music Together as participants are guided through the story through creative movement.

    Sat, Dec 21, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
    Downtown Library - Conference Room
    Are you socially anxious, introverted, new in town, or just looking for an easy way to meet new people? Join us to play board games and have fun! (Knowing how to play games is not required.)

    Sat, Dec 21, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
    Enjoy this holiday favorite along with cocoa and crafts. Bring any presents you haven't had time to wrap. Use our supplies or bring your own and trade with others.