Did you know your library card is a passport to learning a
foreign language? Well, it is, because
your library card gets you access to Mango Complete, the Library’s database for
learning foreign languages and English for non-native speakers. And for those of you who already knew about
Mango, here’s something you may not have heard—Mango has been busy adding more
languages this summer, including
Armenian, Punjabi, and Hungarian, just to name a few. This means you can now choose from over 60
foreign languages to study.
But how does Mango work?
Simply go to the Library’s Databases A-Z webpage and select Mango from the
alphabetical list. If you’re at home,
you will be asked for your library card number and PIN. Type in with no spaces your entire library
card number, which begins 2133300. Your PIN
number should be the last 4 digits of your phone number unless you’ve changed
it to something different. But if you’re
having trouble, ask anyone at the Library to reset your PIN for you.
And while we love seeing you at the Library, there's actually a big benefit to using Mango at home as opposed to coming to the Library. What benefit? One of Mango’s best features is that it will record your voice and compare
it to their teacher to see if you are pronouncing words correctly. Library computers, however, don’t have
microphones to allow recording. Can you
imagine what the Library would sound like with 20 people saying “Hello,” in 20
different languages? Most computers have
a built in microphone, so be sure to check your computer before you go out and
buy one.
When you first get to Mango, it’s probably a good idea to Create a Profile so that the database can track your progress and remember
which lessons you have studied. All
that’s need for a Profile is an active email and the password of your
choice.
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Now click on Courses to select from one of over 60 languages
or one of more than a dozen English courses designed for specific native
speakers.
Before starting the lesson, Mango will check to see if Java and Flash are up to date
on your computer. These are plug ins
that allow the lessons to display, and your computer likely already has both. If not and you’re having trouble, check the
Support section. Assuming everything’s a
go, you can now start learning.
But if you’re still confused or need some help, contact the
Library or sign up for the upcoming Mango class at the Perry Sippo Branch
Library on Thursday, July 25 at 6:30 pm.
(Seating is limited for this class, so please sign up ASAP if you want
to come!)
Shelia
PS If you want to use Mango on your tablet or smartphone, download the Mango app free!
