ABOVE: Donna Johnson demonstrates signs during a Sign Languages Basics class on Monday evening at the Martin County Library in Fairmont. Approximately eight individuals were present to learn how to sign the English alphabet, numbers, time of day, colors and directions. The audience was allowed to ask for certain signing examples.

FAIRMONT — The Martin County library in Fairmont and a local instructor put on a new class for those who need or want to learn American Sign Language (ASL). The classes are available for individuals of all ages and skill levels.

“I hope to be helpful as much as I can,” instructor Donna Johnson said.

Johnson has and will teach all the classes in the library. She grew up in the Twin Cities and now resides in Fairmont with her husband. She has been using sign language since she was nine years of age because her adoptive sister was hard of hearing. Johnson advanced her skills by attending ASL classes throughout four years of college.

Afterward, she transferred to an interpreting program at St. Cloud Technical College, but had to leave as she began to lose her hearing. In 2001, Johnson had a 15 percent hearing loss. Presently, Johnson has 70 percent hearing loss and aims to advocate for individuals who use ASL and are at any hearing level, as she shares the ability of ASL with the community.

“The language involves placement of hands on the body, facial expressions and speed. It’s not just the hands,” Johnson said to the class on Monday evening.

During her class on Monday, Johnson and the eight individuals in attendance learned the English alphabet, numbers, time of day, colors, phrases, objects and more signs requested by the students. Additionally, Johnson provided colored paper that showed pictures of ASL demonstrations, and the library offered book selections on beginner and advanced sign language that students could check out following the class. Johnson added that learning ASL in person can be beneficial.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, neurodivergent and/or have communication disorders are the demographics that predominantly depend on sign language.

“A lot of children and adults use American Sign Language to communicate and make connections. They need those connections. Whether with their family, friends, or anyone.” Johnson said.

Her wish for the regular ASL group is multi-faceted. She would like to create a safe space to talk and learn, have a sense of community, share information, share experiences, provide a support network for all levels of hearing, help in the process of accessibility and help with acceptance of others.

“I would like to make the class fun for everyone and build a community,” she said.

Future classes will be at 4 p.m. on May 8, June 2, June 30, July 29 and Aug. 26 at the Martin County Library in Fairmont. Johnson encourages individuals to attend classes regularly. She explained during the class that she would like to sit with everyone and converse in American Sign Language during the summer.

“Fluency can be learned [in this class],” she said. “However, sometimes it depends on the person, and their exposure [to American Sign Language].”

For additional information regarding Johnson’s class, contact the library at (507) 238-4207. For information about Donna Johnson and her mission to create and sustain a friendly atmosphere for American Sign Language users and learners, visit the Facebook Page, “south central asl group.”