The public library — America's best free resource

If you have recently moved to the United States, you've found one of the nation's most powerful yet underused resources: your public library. Far beyond books, America's public library system offers free internet, computers, printing, English classes, tax preparation help, and citizenship support—often with nothing more than proof of your home address to get started.

Getting a library card

Almost every public library in the United States will issue you a free card if you can show proof of your current address. Most libraries ask for a photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or government ID from your home country) plus proof of where you live. Proof of address can be a utility bill, rental agreement, lease, a letter from your employer, or even a recent envelope addressed to you at your home. Some libraries accept utility bills issued within the past 30 days, rental documentation, or voter registration cards. A few libraries even offer temporary 28-day cards to new residents who have a photo ID but haven't yet obtained proof of address.

Free internet, computers, and printing

Most public libraries offer free WiFi to anyone who walks in, whether or not you have a library card. Wireless internet is available throughout the building and sometimes outside. If you have your own laptop or mobile device, you can connect to the library's WiFi network and work without time limits. This can be invaluable while you're setting up broadband at home, shopping for internet service, or dealing with provider delays.

Public computers are also available, usually at no charge with a library card. Computer access typically allows you 1–2 hours per day, though policies vary by library. You can use these computers to complete job applications, create email accounts, video-call family, or access government services online. Some libraries also offer printing and copying services. Printing costs vary but are usually very low—often free for the first 10 pages, or as little as 10–15 cents per page for additional pages.

Many libraries also offer free computer classes covering basic skills like using Gmail, Microsoft Word and Excel, and job search tools. These classes can be especially helpful if you are adjusting to a new workplace culture or need to refresh your skills after a move.

Free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and conversation groups

Public libraries across the country offer free English classes for adults. These are usually organized by proficiency level—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—so you can join a group suited to your current skills. Classes meet regularly (typically one or two days per week) and are taught by trained instructors or experienced volunteers. Some libraries also offer informal conversation clubs where you can practice speaking with other learners in a relaxed setting.

ESL classes at libraries cover speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, and pronunciation. Many libraries also provide digital language learning tools through library apps and websites. Once you have a library card, you can often access online platforms that offer lessons in over 70 languages, self-paced video instruction, and practice quizzes. These tools let you learn at your own pace from home, on your phone, or at the library.

• Grammar and writing workshops
• Conversation practice and discussion clubs
• Pronunciation and listening comprehension
• Test preparation for English proficiency exams like TOEFL
• Specialized vocabulary for work or daily living

Free tax preparation in spring

Every spring, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) runs the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers completely free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers. Many VITA sites are located right at public libraries, community centers, and schools. IRS-certified volunteers prepare your federal and state tax returns at no charge and can e-file them for you.

VITA is available if your adjusted gross income (AGI) is under roughly $75,000 per year. The program is especially valuable for immigrants who are newly employed, self-employed (filing a 1099 form), or receiving income from multiple sources. The volunteers understand tax credits you may qualify for—such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)—that can significantly increase your refund. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) rather than a Social Security Number (SSN), VITA volunteers are accustomed to working with both types of filers.

To find a VITA site near you, use the IRS VITA Locator Tool on the irs.gov website, or call 800-906-9887. Appointments typically open in January and run through April. Some sites accept walk-ins, but many require you to book ahead, especially as tax day approaches. You will need to bring documents like your W-2 forms (if you are an employee), 1099 forms (if you are self-employed or freelance), your Social Security card or ITIN, a photo ID, and proof of address.

Free citizenship test preparation classes

If you are working toward U.S. citizenship and need to pass the naturalization interview, many libraries offer free citizenship preparation classes. These classes help you study the civics questions, practice reading and writing in English, and prepare for the interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Classes usually meet multiple times per week for 8–10 weeks and cover topics like U.S. government, history, the Constitution, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

Library citizenship classes are often taught by community volunteers or staff with immigration experience. You can also attend drop-in study groups led by volunteer citizenship exam coaches. Some libraries provide online practice tests and flashcards—both civics flashcards and reading/writing flashcards—that you can use to prepare on your own time. If you took the USCIS civics test before October 20, 2025, you will study the 100-question test; if you applied after that date, the new 128-question civics test applies to you.

To locate citizenship classes at your local library, visit the library's website or call and ask about adult citizenship programs. Many libraries also have partnerships with nonprofit organizations that specialize in immigration support, so staff can refer you to additional free legal advice and application help.

Additional resources and programs

Beyond ESL, tax prep, and citizenship classes, public libraries often provide other services especially useful to newcomers. Many libraries house information about health insurance enrollment, job training programs, and community resources. Some libraries have dedicated immigrant services coordinators who can connect you with legal aid, workplace rights information, or benefits enrollment help.

Libraries also typically stock books and materials in multiple languages, so you can access information in your native language while you are learning English. You can check out books, e-books, audiobooks, and magazines at no cost. Many libraries also provide access to databases for job searching, resume building, and career counseling.

How to make the most of your library

Visit your local library branch in person to get your free card. Bring a photo ID and proof of your current address. Once you have your card, explore the library's website to see what classes, programs, and digital tools are available. Most libraries allow you to register for ESL or citizenship classes online, or you can call and ask staff to sign you up.

Ask library staff about programs you can access from home—many libraries offer online ESL classes, digital language tools, job search databases, and legal information websites that you can use 24/7 with your library card number. Librarians can also help you navigate government websites, apply for jobs online, or find immigration resources.

Libraries are built for the public to use freely, and they understand that newcomers have specific needs. Don't hesitate to ask staff for help—they are trained to assist people from all backgrounds and often speak multiple languages. Your library card is one of the quickest, easiest, and most valuable documents you can obtain when you arrive in the United States.