Newcomer Services

The Guelph Public Library offers services and programs for Newcomers to Canada. A library card is free for anyone who lives in Guelph.

How to get a library card

Register online or in person at any library location. With a library card, you can borrow books and movies and use our online resources.

Attend a virtual library program

You can attend a free virtual program that your whole family can enjoy!


Learning English	Learn about Canada	Online Resources

Community Services	Books and Movies	Additional Resources

Learning English

Library Programs to Help You Learn English

The library offers free programs to help you practice your English.

Virtual English Conversation Circle: Practice speaking English in a friendly and welcoming virtual setting. Registration is required for this online meeting!

In-person practice is suspended at this time.

English Conversation Circle at Main Library - Practice speaking English in a friendly and welcoming place. Join us Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for this free program.

English Practice Group at Westminster Square Branch - Join a lively group of English language learners to practice your English on Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This free program is offered in partnership with Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington.

Library Resources to Help You Learn English

The library offers many resources that you can take home to help you practice your English. Browse the many English language learning and Adult Literacy materials that we offer!

Learn about Canada - Citizenship

We have resources that can help you with your Citizenship Test, including Discover Canada, the official study guide. You may borrow it from the library or read it or listen to it online.

For more information about applying for Canadian citizenship, please visit the Canadian Government Citizenship website.

Richmond Public Library - Practice Citizenship Test

Online Resources

Practice English and computer skills, take a course or read newspapers from around the world. We have great tools for learning and enjoyment.

Transparent Language - Contains guided lesson plans to learn languages at a conversational level. Learn a new language or brush up on your French. Try the app from iTunes and Google Play.

KidSpeak via Transparent Language - Broaden young learners' horizons with KidSpeak. They'll work their way through fun and engaging activities with their cartoon "friend" and his or her playful pet. Note: This feature is not available for all languages. Try the app from iTunes and Google Play.

PressReader - Contains a collection of Canadian & international newspapers and magazines; which can be organized into your own personalized newsfeed. Try the app from App Store and Google Play.

Lynda.com - Lynda.com offers thousands of courses via individual instructional videos available on topics covering business, technology and creative fields. Learn from hundreds of authors who are recognized industry experts, and enjoy the flexibility to view Lynda.com content anytime, anywhere with our offline viewing and mobile apps on the App Store and Google Play.

GALE Courses - Contains instructor-led, interactive courses covering a wide variety of academic and personal topics.

Tutor.com - Live, one-on-one, online tutoring for students of all ages, as well as worksheets and study materials. Open from 4 pm to 10 pm, 7 days a week. Try the app from the App Store or Google Play!