Two branches of the Ocean County Library will offer a free, six-week course to eligible immigrants who are seeking United States citizenship. Part of the naturalization process includes successfully completing a test administered by the US Citizenship and Immigration Service. The six-week course helps prepare immigrants to take that test. In order to participate in the classes and take the examination a person must: Read, speak and write English; Have been a permanent, lawful resident (“Green card”) for five years, or three years if married to a US citizen. The classes will be held at the Upper Shores branch (112 Jersey City Avenue, Lavallette) Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 5, 2010. For information about registration call (732) 793-3996.

The classes will also be held at the Lacey branch 10 E. Lacey Road, Forked River) Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. beginning January 20, 2010. For information about registration call (609) 693-8566.

Subjects to be covered during the six sessions include introduction to the naturalization process; US history; reading and writing readiness; and a review of the application for naturalization. APP/OCL