ASL at the Library Launches Strong in Yakima Valley

Did you attend the first ASL At The Library event? If you did, you have taken your first steps into a new way of life, a new way to communicate, and a new way to appreciate the world around you.

ASL In The Yakima Valley

The Yakima Valley Libraries kicked off their ASL at the Library events at the Union Gap Library on Thursday, January 8th, and it was a big success, so much so that, according to accounts, there was standing room only.

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American Sign Language is a language spoken using your hands and body and is considered the third most studied language in the U.S., used all over the world.

The course was instructed by Cody from the Yakima Valley Association of the Deaf with his interpreter, Jennifer.

The free class shared introductions to the world of American Sign Language, talking about the community that uses ASL, the differences between sign language used in America versus other parts of the world, and fun and simple phrases like “Living room”, “Welcome”, and “Cat”.

The first of these classes focused on teaching the Alphabet and included a question-and-answer section with the instructors.

“Learn the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) in a beginner-friendly setting. Practice and build confidence as we explore and practice communication in a welcoming space.”

Classes are (as of this writing) planned for the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month. Be sure to visit YVL.org and the Yakima Valley Libraries Facebook Page for future updates on the classes.