For Adults

SEE OUR FULL CALENDAR

Regular Programs

  • ESL Conversation Group

    English as a Second Language

    Weekly Conversation Group

    The Demarest Library offers a conversation group for English language learners. We are a small handful of local students and most of us have a basic to intermediate level of speaking. Starting the first week of May 2025, we will have weekly meetings on Wednesdays from 1 pm - 2:30 pm. Masks are optional and everyone is welcome to attend. That being said, if you think you are looking for more one-on-one help, we have resources for that below.

    Registration is not required. These groups are relaxed, conversation-focused, and full of friendly students. For more information, please reach out to Geo at geo.von.griffin@demarest.bccls.org, give the library a call at 201-768-8714, or stop by the upstairs desk for a chat.

    Other Resources

    For more intensive English classes, consider the following free resources:

    Request a Tutor
    Contact Project Literacy
    • Greater Bergen Community Action offers free ESL and New Americans classes. Classes are held in Palisades Park, Cliffside Park, and Garfield and run for 10 week sessions, four times a year. Registration takes place two months before each session on Fridays at 10 am. Students must bring ID, proof of address, and a social security card if they have one. Students take a placement test to determine which level class they will enter. Call the Garfield office to register to take the test at 973-685-0005, extension 7150. The office is in the back of the building, and the address is:

      541 Midland Avenue
      Garfield, NJ 07026

    • Bergen County Technical Schools offer free English Literacy & Civics and free ESL classes. For more information, call Silvia at 201-343-6000, extension 4639 between 8am and 4pm or visit the ESL/GED office:

      Adult Education Building
      190 Hackensack Avenue
      Hackensack, NJ 07601
  • Knitting Club

    Come join this hip group of talented knitters to talk patterns and projects, share tips and tricks, and socialize while you slip stitches. New members & out-of-towners always welcome! (And yes, the knitting club is crochet friendly!)

    The knitting club meets the first and third Wednesday of the month from 7:30pm to 9:00pm, except the first Wednesday in July and the third Wednesday in November and December. They also host an active email list that includes tip, stories, and reminders about yarn sales! Email thedemarestknitters@outlook.com to join.

    Sorry, this is not a knitting class. But the library does have an extensive collection of knitting books (including for beginners!) located in the central aisle of the adult bookshelves under 746.432. (Can't find 'em? Ask a librarian! We're happy to help.) The Emerson Community School typically offers an Intro to Knitting class for some hands-on learning – contact them at 201-262-5502.

  • Movie Matinee

    Watch the latest and greatest films on our big-screen TV! Please note, we are not allowed to advertise online what movie we're showing – stop by the library or call us at 201-768-8714 to find out.

    Movies are typically the second Monday of the month, starting at 12:30pm. (This is subject to change – check our calendar to confirm.) Light refreshments are served.