An American Sign Language (ASL) class is returning to the schedule of adult programs at the Cape Girardeau Public Library.
Program coordinator Whitney Vandeven says ASL Basics and ASL 1.5 will not certify you to be an interpreter, but they will allow you to more easily converse with friends and family who are deaf or hard of hearing.
“We want all people to be included in the conversation, whether that’s in the workplace or in the neighborhood,” says Vandeven. “They deserve to have a voice, even if that voice is with their hands.”
According to the Center For Hearing And Communication, nearly 48 million people in America suffer from significant hearing loss.
She says the ASL classes have proven to be popular with the community in the past.
“There is an interest to learn sign language and communicate better. And, because we’re a public library, we’re able to offer it at a less expensive cost,” says Vandeven.
ASL Basics and ASL 1.5 will be taught by Tenesa Ehrmann. Those hoping to attend should pre-register here.
