The Spoken English @ the Public Library (SEPL) programme was formed in March 2022, when one volunteer recognised that there weren't enough opportunities for second-language learners of English to practise speaking the language in a comfortable and supportive environment. ​​
 

This volunteer obtained the support of the Colombo Library, which provided her with a space to conduct the classes and support in setting up the programme — thus SEPL was born!
 

​Since its inception in March 2022, the programme has completed three iterations of courses. In our current, fourth iteration of the programme, we have 30 volunteer teachers running 9 courses and 2 Book Clubs and we're conducting our programme in two branches of the Public Library: at Colombo and the Kirulapone Branch. ​

Our courses, which are open to all members of the public, aim to help both children and adult learners of English improve their ability and confidence in speaking the language. Our Intermediate courses focus on improving grammar and inculcating the ability to speak about day-to-day topics. Our Advanced courses help students who are already quite fluent in the language to speak about more complex topics with confidence.​​

We're constantly looking for ways to support the building of English language in our community! That's why in this fourth iteration of the programme, we've also started two Book Clubs for kids and teens. These Book Clubs, we hope, will foster a strong reading habit within children and will improve their discussion skills and their ability to think critically about what they read.​​

With a strong team of volunteers, the support of the library staff and students who are always looking to improve their language skills, we are sure that SEPL is sure to grow and expand in many ways in the years to come!​