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Image for event: Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English

Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English
2025-02-12 18:00:00 2025-02-12 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, February 12
6:00pm - 7:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-02-12 18:00:00 2025-02-12 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, Dec 02 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Tue, Dec 03 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Wed, Dec 04 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Thu, Dec 05 9:00AM to 8:00PM
    Fri, Dec 06 9:00AM to 5:00PM
    Sat, Dec 07 9:00AM to 5:00PM
    Sun, Dec 08 1:00PM to 5:00PM
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    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

    Craft Your Perfect Resume - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
    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.
    Between the Covers Book Club
    Tue, Dec 03, 10:00am - 11:00am
    Downtown Library - Unconference Room
    Reading and good conversation in a relaxed atmosphere
    Early Learning Story Time
    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!
    Teen 3D Print Club
    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.
    Murder Mystery Club - Work Together to Solve a Crime
    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.
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    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.
    Future Forward: Skills for Career Success
    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!
    Financial Education - in the Opportunity Center
    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.
    Dungeons & Dragons - Gaming Club
    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.
    CR Chess Club
    Wed, Dec 04, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
    Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English
    Wed, Dec 04, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?
    Sensory Story Time
    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.
    Chair Yoga - with Tammy Bayer of Toula Yoga
    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.
    Civil Rights Commission Community Office Hours
    Thu, Dec 05, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
    Downtown Library - Commons
    Chat with staff of the Civil Rights Commission about your concerns and questions.
    Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees
    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.
    Women Bound By Books
    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! 
    Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
    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.
    Fun Ways to Practice Mindfulness - Family Program
    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.
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    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.
    Expressive Arts with Tanager
    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.
    Friends of the Library Very Cherry Holiday Book Sale
    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.
    Snowy Story Time
    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!
    Tree Lighting 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!
    Early Learning Story Time - In-person
    Mon, Dec 09, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.
    Future Forward: Skills for Career Success
    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!
    Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
    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.
    After School Adventures: Stencil Fun
    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.
    Craft Your Perfect Resume - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
    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.
    Early Learning Story Time
    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!
    Amnesty International: Write for Rights
    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.
    A Cozy Quest: Role-Playing & Crafting
    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.
    Book Lovers Book Club
    Tue, Dec 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Newcomers always welcome to this general interest book club.
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    Wed, Dec 11, 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.
    Financial Education - in the Opportunity Center
    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.
    Trading Card Game Club - After-School Group
    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.
    CR Chess Club
    Wed, Dec 11, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
    Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English
    Wed, Dec 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?
    Sensory Story Time
    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.
    Chair Yoga - with Tammy Bayer of Toula Yoga
    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
    How to Impress in your Job Interview - with Goodwill of the Heartland
    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.
    Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
    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.
    Wood Crafting with the Laser Cutter
    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.
    Registration is now closed
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    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.
    Merry TubaChristmas - 23nd Annual Cedar Rapids Area Merry TubaChristmas
    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.
    Early Learning Story Time
    Mon, Dec 16, 10:00am - 10:30am
    Ladd Library - Community Room
    Story time for young children with stories, songs, and other interactive activities.
    Future Forward: Skills for Career Success
    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!
    Social Games for Older Adults: Bingo
    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.
    Cancelled
    Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
    Mon, Dec 16, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
    Craft Your Perfect Resume - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
    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.
    Early Learning Story Time
    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!
    Teen 3D Print Club
    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.
    Murder Mystery Club - Work Together to Solve a Crime
    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.
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    Wed, Dec 18, 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.
    Future Forward: Skills for Career Success
    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!
    Financial Education - in the Opportunity Center
    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.
    Dungeons & Dragons - Gaming Club
    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.
    CR Chess Club
    Wed, Dec 18, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
    A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
    Conversation Group: Learn & Practice English
    Wed, Dec 18, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
    Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
    Did you know you can learn English for free at the library?
    Sensory Story Time
    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.
    Job Searching Online - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
    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.
    Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
    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.
    Read to Dogs
    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.!
    Baby and Toddler Story Time
    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.
    Expressive Arts with Tanager
    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.
    Dance to the Nutcracker! 
    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.
    Socially Anxious Hangout Group
    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.)
    "Home Alone" with Cocoa, Crafts, & Gift Wrapping
    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.
    Cancelled
    Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
    Mon, Dec 23, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
    School's Out: Crafts & Games
    Mon, Dec 23, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Downtown Library - Union
    When school is out, come to the library! Teens and tweens ages 11-18 are invited to an hour of crafts, games, free books and more.
    Library Closed
    Tue, Dec 24, All day
    Downtown Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    Library Closed
    Tue, Dec 24, All day
    Ladd Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    Library Closed
    Wed, Dec 25, All day
    Downtown Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    Library Closed
    Wed, Dec 25, All day
    Ladd Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    School's Out: Button Making
    Fri, Dec 27, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Get creative and make wearable buttons using book pages, magazines, coloring pages or your own designs. Each participant can make up to 5 buttons. This program is designed for kids in grade school.
    Corridor Games on Demand - Community Game Day
    Sat, Dec 28, 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.
    New Year Welcome!
    Sat, Dec 28, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
    Welcome the New Year with a family friendly celebration that includes dancing, crafts, button-making, bubbles and more!
    Cancelled
    Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
    Mon, Dec 30, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
    Ladd Library
    Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
    Crayon Resist Art for Kids
    Mon, Dec 30, 2:30pm - 3:30pm
    Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
    Kids are invited to make their secret images appear with a simple crayon resist art technique! Geared towards K-5th students.
    Library Closing Early
    Tue, Dec 31, 9:00am - 5:00pm
    Downtown Library
    Library closing at 5 pm.
    Library Closing Early
    Tue, Dec 31, 9:00am - 5:00pm
    Ladd Library
    Library closing at 5 pm.
    Library Closed
    Wed, Jan 01, All day
    Downtown Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    Library Closed
    Wed, Jan 01, All day
    Ladd Library
    Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
    Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees
    Thu, Jan 02, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
    Downtown Library - Conference Room
    The Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees meets the first Thursday of each month at 4 pm for their regular meeting.
    Women Bound By Books
    Thu, Jan 02, 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! 
    Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
    Thu, Jan 02, 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.
    PJ Story Time
    Thu, Jan 02, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
    Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
    Wear your jammies, bring a blanket and a stuffy friend and snuggle up as we get ready for a long winter's night.
    See all events