The Maplewood Library recently announced it was awarded a $227,068 state grant over two years from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL). The funding, which is the largest grant in the library’s 112-year history, is earmarked for the significant expansion of its adult literacy services.
The grant was issued through the NJDOL’s Community Library Adult Literacy and Career Pathway (CLALCP) program.
Library Director Sarah Lester highlighted the urgent need for these resources in the community. “There is great demand for English literacy resources in our community, and this generous grant will go a long way toward funding that critical need,” Lester said.
The CLALCP program is designed to complement existing literacy initiatives by funding essential programs such as:
- Adult Basic Education
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) instruction
- Digital literacy training
- Workforce-readiness assistance, including career counseling and job preparation
“Our library system is more than a place to check out books,” Lester added. “We play a critical role in civic engagement, workforce development and empowering adults to achieve personal and professional goals.”
Since 2016, the Maplewood Library has successfully partnered with Literacy Volunteers of America, Essex and Passaic Counties (LVAEP) to offer ESOL instruction. This partnership has served more than 600 students over the past nine years, including residents from Haiti, South America, and Asia.
This new grant ensures the library can continue supporting its diverse community in building critical skills that will positively impact their lives and the lives of their families.
The library has announced upcoming ESOL sessions:
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English Conversation Class (In-Person): Thursdays, Dec. 11, 2025–Jan. 29, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hilton Branch Library. This class is for students with a strong command of English who wish to enhance expressive skills.
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Beginner and Intermediate Online Classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 6–March 26, 2026, 9 a.m. to noon.
Registration and pre-testing are required for all classes. The registration fee is $25, and classes are open to all New Jersey residents age 18 and older.
