The first question librarians asked when we launched the Spanish course for library staff… do you have this is in French?

The answer is finally oui, oui!

Introducing the French for Library Professionals in Transparent Language Online.

Librarians, library staff, and volunteers can now better serve French speaking patrons in everyday scenarios around the library.

The course is organized into 11 topical units, so you can prepare to speak with patrons about library services, programs, policies, and more:

1. Issuing library cards
2. Discussing library resources
3. Finding library materials
4. Checking out and returning materials
5. Using library computers and printers
6. Accessing e-resources
7. Discussing adult programs
8. Discussing book clubs
9. Summer reading programs
10. Storytime
11. Explaining library policies

Each unit includes vocabulary lessons and grammar modules that build up to a conversation lesson. For example, in the Finding Library Materials unit, you’ll learn:

• Vocabulary: direction words, locations in a library, book genres
• Grammar: how to say where things are using prepositions of place
• Conversation: roleplay a scenario where you help a patron locate a specific book

The course is also completely flexible. Learn as much or as little as you need based on your current French abilities and your library responsibilities. Feel free to learn it all or jump around to only the topics that matter most to you.

Best of all, it’s free to all library professionals!

⚠️ If your library subscribes to Transparent Language Online, create an account via your library’s website for unlimited access (trial accounts expire). Select “French” as your language > visit the “Courses & Lessons” tab > scroll until you see the “French for Library Professionals” course.

If your library doesn’t subscribe yet, you can start learning French in the free trial. (BTW, we’re always happy to extend your trial for 60 days upon request.)