People learning English as a second language can now access specialist books in Irvine Library.
Books have been selected by North Ayrshire Council’s Community Learning and Development team to ensure they are suitable for ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners.
Adapted versions of classic titles have been chosen as they are in a “graded reader” format that makes them ideal for ESOL learners.
Graded readers are books or texts written in simplified English, designed to match different levels of language learners. They help learners build confidence and fluency by reading material that’s appropriate for their current ability.
The aim of having these books is to:
- Promote individual learning
- Help improve people’s vocabulary and grammar
- Give ESOL learners easier access to books
- Ensure available content is enjoyable to read for pleasure.
The books are suitable for readers from beginner level to advanced.
Quote: I am delighted that staff in our Libraries service have worked closely with their Community Learning and Development colleagues to make this project happen. Having the physical ESOL books available at Irvine Library is a great step forward in ensuring that people whose first language isn’t English can simply pick up a book when they fancy a read.
Quote from: Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Housing and Islands
Andrii, from Ukraine, attends various Council ESOL sessions weekly to help develop his English and studied German at school when he was growing up.
He said: “Having these books in the library is very cool, and I can choose a book for my level. For me, it’s a new level for my understanding of English.
Kateryna, also from Ukraine, added: “I love reading books, and I read a lot of books. It’s absolutely amazing because you can choose a book for your level.”
Any ESOL learner with a library card is welcome to visit Irvine Library at 168 High Street to browse the ESOL selection and borrow a title. You can also go online and – using your library card – have books delivered to your local library for convenience.
If you know someone whose first language isn’t English and needs support with their English, you can complete a short referral form online.
Volunteers with ESOL qualifications – and other qualifications including a Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – are needed to support the Council’s various ESOL sessions.
If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities across North Ayrshire to help New Scots improve their English and integrate into their community, you can fill in a form.
Published: 21 October 2025