English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Conversation Group

Practice speaking English with other adult learners in an informal and friendly group setting. The group is led by a volunteer teacher and will take place in-person.  This class requires basic English-speaking skills. Beginner students should contact the Literacy Serv......More

Practice speaking English with other adult learners in an informal and friendly group setting. The group is led by a volunteer teacher and will take place in-person.  This class requires basic English-speaking skills. Beginner students should contact the Literacy Services department for a list of beginner class options. This is a drop-in program. No registration is required. For more information, contact the West End Branch Library at 617-523-3957; Literacy Services at 617-859-2446 or [email protected]. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website: https://bplfund.org/

Information Session for Adult English Learners

Are you an adult English Language Learner looking for resources, support, and ways to practice? Join members of our Literacy Services team and ELL instructors for an informal information session! This is your chance to: Ask questions about local resources and progra......More

Are you an adult English Language Learner looking for resources, support, and ways to practice? Join members of our Literacy Services team and ELL instructors for an informal information session! This is your chance to: Ask questions about local resources and programs for adult English learners. Learn about our free, informal conversation practice groups (a great way to practice speaking and listening). Talk with an instructor about how to get started, whether through our formal classes, conversation groups, or other community resources. Important Notes: This is NOT a Class This session is designed to answer questions and connect you with resources; it is not a formal English class and you will not receive instruction. In case our Formal Classes are full: If you are interested in a formal grammar class and the classes are currently full, instructors can help you understand the process for joining the waitlist. To join the waitlist, you will need to fill out an enrollment form. Instructors can refer you to our Instruction Services to schedule an appointment to complete this form. Conversation Groups: If formal classes are full, we strongly encourage you to join our conversation groups! These groups are a fantastic way to practice your English in a relaxed environment while you wait for a formal class opening. Additional Resources for English Learners For more options, programs, and self-study tools available across the city and online, please explore the following resources: Literacy Resources for ESOL Learners City of Boston’s Adult Literacy Initiative Massachusetts Adult Education Help Desk Mango Languages online learning software (library card required) How to get a library card Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website.

Construction Club: LEGO and More!

Join us at the library for an exciting adventure in our Construction Club! Unleash your imagination and dive into a world of building possibilities with LEGO, Duplo, Wooden Blocks, and more! Whether you're a building master or just starting out, there's something for e......More

Join us at the library for an exciting adventure in our Construction Club! Unleash your imagination and dive into a world of building possibilities with LEGO, Duplo, Wooden Blocks, and more! Whether you're a building master or just starting out, there's something for everyone in our fun-filled sessions. ​ Come meet new friends, explore endless building challenges, and let your creativity soar to new heights! Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website: https://bplfund.org/

Boston Teachers Union: Homework Help

Visit the library and receive homework assistance from a Boston Public Schools teacher. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required to attend. This program is made possible through our partnership with the Boston Teachers Union (BTU). Accessibility Notice......More

Visit the library and receive homework assistance from a Boston Public Schools teacher. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required to attend. This program is made possible through our partnership with the Boston Teachers Union (BTU). Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request disability accommodation and/or language services, please contact [email protected] or call (617) 523-3957. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Tax Assistance

Since 1968, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has provided free tax help to over 78 million taxpayers, with a focus on older adults with low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide and are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about ......More

Since 1968, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has provided free tax help to over 78 million taxpayers, with a focus on older adults with low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide and are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.  Tax assistance from Tax-Aide is available by appointment at the West End Branch of the Boston Public Library and other sites in and around Boston. Volunteer Tax-Aide preparers can complete and e-file most federal and Massachusetts tax returns, although there are limited exceptions. Please call the branch at 617.523.3957 to make an appointment. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

Meet Your Age Strong Advocate: Nhung (Ivy) Pham

Meet Nhung (Ivy) Pham, your neighborhood Age Strong advocate! Ivy can assist older adults with: Applying for city services & government benefits (including SNAP, Medicare, and Medicaid) Connecting to programs and resources And more Programming at the Boston Pub......More

Meet Nhung (Ivy) Pham, your neighborhood Age Strong advocate! Ivy can assist older adults with: Applying for city services & government benefits (including SNAP, Medicare, and Medicaid) Connecting to programs and resources And more Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website: https://bplfund.org/ Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

Monday Messy Morning

Join us for arts, crafts, and messy fun, perfect for little ones! Best for ages 3+ Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pan......More

Join us for arts, crafts, and messy fun, perfect for little ones! Best for ages 3+ Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website.

Story Time

Story Time is back! Join Mr. Josh on Monday mornings for a story, songs and fun! Best for ages 2+, but all kids are welcome to join in the fun. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language serv......More

Story Time is back! Join Mr. Josh on Monday mornings for a story, songs and fun! Best for ages 2+, but all kids are welcome to join in the fun. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website.

Board Games Club

Join us for our weekly Board Games Club.  Bring your friends and play your choice of classic games.  Our games include Chess, Clue, Scrabble, Monopoly, and more! Board Games Club meets every Monday from 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM.

Tech Appointments at the West End

Need tech assistance? The West End Library is now offering support for basic technology and software troubleshooting. Book a 30-minute one-on-one appointment with a librarian for help with any of your technology or job search needs. We can help with questions about u......More

Need tech assistance? The West End Library is now offering support for basic technology and software troubleshooting. Book a 30-minute one-on-one appointment with a librarian for help with any of your technology or job search needs. We can help with questions about using your phone, email, computer basics, or job applications. Tuesdays, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM By Appointment Only For more information or to schedule an appointment, email Wesley Fiorentino at [email protected] or call 617-523-3957. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

Tai Chi for Fall Prevention: Level 1

This evidence-based program is proven to reduce falls, improve fitness, and is designed for older adults who are interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength. Participants will learn: Balance Skills Proper Body Alignment Coordinated Tai Chi moveme......More

This evidence-based program is proven to reduce falls, improve fitness, and is designed for older adults who are interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength. Participants will learn: Balance Skills Proper Body Alignment Coordinated Tai Chi movements This program is appropriate for adults: With or without arthritis, rheumatic diseases, or related musculoskeletal conditions With mild, moderate, or severe joint involvement and back pain With a high risk of falling Level 1: Movements 1-12 - For Beginners, no Tai Chi experience necessary. Classes are led by a certified instructor. These progressive workshops are once a week for 60 minutes on Tuesdays.   Class is limited to 20 participants. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

Tai Chi for Fall Prevention: Level 2

This evidence-based program is proven to reduce falls, improve fitness, and is designed for older adults who are interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength. Participants will learn: Balance Skills Proper Body Alignment Coordinated Tai Chi moveme......More

This evidence-based program is proven to reduce falls, improve fitness, and is designed for older adults who are interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength. Participants will learn: Balance Skills Proper Body Alignment Coordinated Tai Chi movements This program is appropriate for adults: With or without arthritis, rheumatic diseases, or related musculoskeletal conditions With mild, moderate, or severe joint involvement and back pain With a high risk of falling Level 2: Movements 13-21 - Participants must have learned Level 1. Classes are led by a certified instructor. These progressive workshops are once a week for 60 minutes on Tuesdays. Class is limited to 20 participants. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.

Information Session for Adult English Learners

Are you an adult English Language Learner looking for resources, support, and ways to practice? Join members of our Literacy Services team and ELL instructors for an informal information session! This is your chance to: Ask questions about local resources and progra......More

Are you an adult English Language Learner looking for resources, support, and ways to practice? Join members of our Literacy Services team and ELL instructors for an informal information session! This is your chance to: Ask questions about local resources and programs for adult English learners. Learn about our free, informal conversation practice groups (a great way to practice speaking and listening). Talk with an instructor about how to get started, whether through our formal classes, conversation groups, or other community resources. Important Notes: This is NOT a Class This session is designed to answer questions and connect you with resources; it is not a formal English class and you will not receive instruction. In case our Formal Classes are full: If you are interested in a formal grammar class and the classes are currently full, instructors can help you understand the process for joining the waitlist. To join the waitlist, you will need to fill out an enrollment form. Instructors can refer you to our Instruction Services to schedule an appointment to complete this form. Conversation Groups: If formal classes are full, we strongly encourage you to join our conversation groups! These groups are a fantastic way to practice your English in a relaxed environment while you wait for a formal class opening. Additional Resources for English Learners For more options, programs, and self-study tools available across the city and online, please explore the following resources: Literacy Resources for ESOL Learners City of Boston’s Adult Literacy Initiative Massachusetts Adult Education Help Desk Mango Languages online learning software (library card required) How to get a library card Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website.

Construction Club: LEGO and More!

Join us at the library for an exciting adventure in our Construction Club! Unleash your imagination and dive into a world of building possibilities with LEGO, Duplo, Wooden Blocks, and more! Whether you're a building master or just starting out, there's something for e......More

Join us at the library for an exciting adventure in our Construction Club! Unleash your imagination and dive into a world of building possibilities with LEGO, Duplo, Wooden Blocks, and more! Whether you're a building master or just starting out, there's something for everyone in our fun-filled sessions. ​ Come meet new friends, explore endless building challenges, and let your creativity soar to new heights! Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation. Programming at the Boston Public Library is funded through private support. To learn more about supporting the Library, please visit the Boston Public Library Fund's website: https://bplfund.org/

Little Groove Music

Join Little Groove Music for fun and interactive musical performances on the second Friday of each month. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in......More

Join Little Groove Music for fun and interactive musical performances on the second Friday of each month. Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.