Pottstown Regional Public Library.

POTTSTOWN PA – “Mango Basic,” a new online resource officially made available Friday (Nov. 19, 2010) at the Pottstown Regional Public Library, allows people who seek an elementary understanding of a new language to engage in simple conversations, library Director Mike Packard said.

Beginners trying to grasp any one or more of 22 foreign languages, or English as a second language, can use Mango Basic to learn everyday greetings, gratitudes, goodbyes and helpful phrases in a short period of time. The easy-to-use program requires only two to five hours to complete, and can be accessed either from computers anywhere in the world, or from within the library, 500 High St., Pottstown PA.

To get started with Mango Basic, users should visit the library’s website and click on the “Mango” button.

• The library receives financial support from Lower Pottsgrove (PA) Township.

“We view the addition of Mango Basic as an important next step in our mission … to provide effective, free library service to all of our patrons,” Packard said.

Mango Basic is an abridged version of a Mango Languages’ existing product, he explained. Since its founding in 2007, the Michigan-based company has grown to become one of the world’s leading providers of online language learning products. Its plans this year include enriching content within current offerings and introducing additional languages and features.

Mango’s arrival at the library represents the first installment of what are intended to be several additions to its online resources, Packard noted. For more information, call the library at 610-970-6551.