Chinese-born Barry Zhang had difficulty speaking to Kiwis when he first moved to New Zealand.

He doesn't have that problem now thanks to a reading aloud programme he attended at New Lynn library.

The Repeat Read Aloud programme is being offered again this year at New Lynn, Ranui, Waitakere Central and Massey libraries. It runs for six weeks over the school term with the next one starting in early February.

Mr Zhang participated in the free programme last year.

"Writing and reading was okay but speaking was difficult," he says.

He now feels far more confident speaking English.

New Lynn programme co-ordinator Wendy Wilton says the initiative is for adults wanting to improve their English skills.

They are always looking for more volunteers to help run the project.

This requires around two to four hours a week for the six weeks.

"We can never have enough volunteers," she says.

"You don't have to be a teacher or a tutor to help out."

Mrs Wilton says the programme is not based on education but about helping new immigrants integrate into New Zealand society.

It involves reading simple books aloud, having conversations and playing word games like charades.

Call 817-6076 for more information.

(Source Western Leader)