Seattle Library Boosts English Learning Programs With Carnegie Grant

The Seattle Public Library will significantly expand its English language learning programs over the next two years, supported by a $450,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York awarded to The Seattle Public Library Foundation.

The grant is part of the Carnegie Corporation’s “Libraries as Pillars of Education and Democracy” initiative, which is distributing $5 million across 11 library systems in nine states. The funding is intended to bolster English language learning and improve access to college and career opportunities.

“Libraries are places where people build knowledge, skills, and agency,” said Ambika Kapur, an education program director at the Carnegie Corporation. “This initiative reflects our belief in investing in civic participation — wherever people come together to learn.”

The two-year grant begins July 1, 2025, and will enable the Library to nearly double its culturally responsive English learning offerings. Enhancements include hybrid class formats and free onsite childcare, aimed at expanding access for immigrant and refugee families.

“Carnegie’s renewed investment in public libraries is very timely,” said Tom Fay, chief librarian for The Seattle Public Library. “Thanks to this generous and forward-thinking grant, we can help respond to an urgent need for more programs that empower Seattle’s immigrants and refugees to pursue their goals and fully participate in our city’s economic and social life.”

Brian Lawrence, CEO of The Seattle Public Library Foundation, said the funding marks a significant endorsement of the library’s mission.

“Libraries are among our most trusted institutions, and seeing an organization like Carnegie Corporation returning to fund this transformational work is significant,” Lawrence said. “We are grateful for Carnegie’s commitment to Seattle and to public libraries.”

Programs will be introduced in phases at up to 13 library locations. English Conversation Circles, drop-in gatherings for English learners, will grow from five to 11 weekly sessions. Leveled English classes will increase from two to three per quarter and include an annual advanced ESL course focused on college readiness. Personalized tutoring for adults in ESL and basic skills will expand from three to five sites. Digital skills classes, offered in multiple languages, will increase from two to three per quarter and provide opportunities for learners to earn laptops.

Mayor Bruce Harrell said the grant aligns with Seattle’s values as an inclusive and welcoming city.

“Seattle is a welcoming city that values the people and cultures that make up the fabric of our diverse communities,” Harrell said. “As we continue to embrace new neighbors from across the globe, we strive to provide individuals and families equitable access to City services and the ability to fully participate in our local economy and civic life.”

Hamdi Mohamed, director of Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, said the new funding supports community-based approaches to language learning.

“As Seattle’s immigrant and refugee population continues to grow and enrich our community, our need for language learning programs that build skills and a sense of belonging has also grown,” Mohamed said. “This funding will help our city work with trusted community partners to support our neighbors.”

The Seattle Public Library partners with a range of respected local organizations to deliver language and education programs. Partners include Evergreen Goodwill, Hopelink, Literacy Source, Seattle Colleges, and Villa Comunitaria, as well as city and regional agencies such as Seattle IT, the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County.

“Literacy Source is excited to work with The Seattle Public Library and Carnegie to support English language learners in Seattle,” said Cat Howell, co-executive director and educational director at Literacy Source. “Adult learning programs are in high demand, and this grant will help build capacity in the community. When we support English language adult learning, the whole community wins.”