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Lansing Area English Language Services

This list of Lansing community resources is for reference only. VETP does not endorse any programs not affiliated with MSU.

Many classes may be suspended due to COVID. Please contact each organization to see if they are still meeting.  This list is occasionally updated.  If you know of any corrections or changes, please email  vetp(at)msu.edu


Capital Area District Library (CADL)

Contact: Jill Abood, Community Engagement Specialist

CADL has an online language instruction program, called Transparent Language Online for computers, tablets, and phones. CADL also offers ESOL reading and speaking groups for adults and children and Citizenship Test Prep.

During the school year, the downtown Lansing CADL branch has offered a citizenship class and an ESOL class through the Lansing Literacy Coalition. Contact them for schedule.

Library card needed for Transparent Language Online. Events are open to all.

Capital Area District Library - Okemos Branch

Contact: Eric Stanton, Public Services Librarian

Virtual ESOL Conversation Group for Adults (Online)

Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 11:00 a.m.

Grab your cup of coffee or tea and join us online to practice your English through informal conversation. This group is not formal English instruction.

*Registration is required by emailing stantone(at)cadl.org. You will receive instructions on joining our Zoom session.

ESOL Reading Group for Adults (at the Okemos Library) 

Wednesdays, 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.

Practice your English reading and speaking skills by reading articles, books and short stories aloud. This group is not formal English instruction.

Capital Area Literacy Coalition

Contact: 517-485-4949

Private non-profit organization that provides free ESL services for all levels. They have an ESL class and citizenship class that meets at the CADL Downtown Lansing branch. This class does not meet in the summer. They also offer individual tutors if available. Clients are mainly low-income, but they will provide services for all. Call for more information.

Cristo Rey Community Center

Contact: 517-372-4700 (ask for Andrea Rodriguez)

Offers computer and workforce readiness programming to predominately Spanish speakers. Call for details

Delta Township District Library

Contact: info(at)dtdl.org

Talk with a librarian about community and library resource support for English language learning. Play a game, get a book recommendation, and practice your English! Programs are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month:

- Online via Zoom from 10 to 11 a.m. Register for link.

- In person at the Delta Township District Library from 5 to 6 p.m. No registration required.

English Language Center (ELC) at MSU

Contact: elc(at)msu.edu

This is an English program for international students who need to improve their English language skills before beginning academic coursework or for individuals who are not seeking a degree from MSU, but who want to improve their English skills. 

For tuition information or other questions, contact Ivette at 517-884-1494

ESL & Friends

Contact: Bonnie Bankson

Note: Currently not meeting in person.

International Friendship House

Contact: friendshiphousemsu(at)gmail.com

They have free English classes including Bible studies. They are on a semester schedule and DO meet in the summer. There is a $20 registration fee. They are located on the west edge of MSU, just off Harrison Rd.  They are a Lutheran ministry, not officially affiliated with MSU.

Lansing Community College (LCC)

Contact: 517-483-1196 (ask for Yvonne Creamer)