By Carolyn Davis, Senior Page at Central Library
If you plan on traveling to another country this summer, it would be worthwhile to learn the language. Onondaga County Public Libraries offer resources for learning popular languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, German and Japanese, but did you know you they also offer tools for learning Arabic, Hindi, Sanskrit, Turkish and Farsi?
You can find a wide assortment of language books, dictionaries, and travel guides on the third floor of the Central Library in downtown Syracuse, or one of the other 31 Onondaga County Public Libraries. Hoopla and OverDrive also have lots of digital resources for patrons. Visit www.onlib.org to search the catalog and see everything that's available!
Pronunciator
If you would like to use the internet to learn a new language you should try Pronunciator, which is available to OCPL cardholders. You can learn 80 languages on your computer or mobile device by yourself, with teachers in real time, or movies, music and more.
15-Minute French: Learn in Just Twelve Weeks (View in catalog)
Learn French in just 15-minutes a day. This is perfect if you are just beginning or you need to freshen up what you already know. It includes CDs, a full-color book with realistic examples, translation dictionaries and a menu guide.
Frommer's France (View in catalog)
If you are going to France, you will find in Frommer's all the best places to go whether it is dining, shopping or Notre-Dame. This book includes information on all the greatest spots in France and more!
The Everything Learning Spanish Book by Julie Gutin (View in catalog)
Find it hard to speak Spanish? This second edition makes it easy and includes a CD, step-by-step instructions, exercises, pronunciation guides, tests, as well as a dictionary. Learn the correct way to order food while you are in a restaurant and how to greet and speak to the people there.
Mexico by John Noble (View in catalog)
This bestseller has current information about where you should go and what places to skip. This book is the best guide for deciding whether you want to immerse yourself in Mexico City's cultural scene, go horse riding in a pine forest, or explore the Mayan ruins.
Easy Japanese by Emiko Konomi (View in catalog)
If you are just starting Japanese, this will help you learn quickly and easily. Learn all the basics of the language with general conversations and vocabulary that will get you speaking Japanese now.
Japan by John Hart Benson (View in catalog)
An illustrated book that includes maps of major places in every region. Find all the top areas to go to, including markets, restaurants, and shops. Also includes transportation information and other important tips to explore the country as if you lived there.