The City of Sanctuary movement began in Sheffield in 2005 – its aim is to “provide support, dignity and welcome to refugees and people seeking sanctuary”. Within this, there are local Groups and “Streams”, one of which is (Public) Libraries .
Thimblemill Library in Sandwell, West Midlands was the UK’s first Library of Sanctuary (2017) – there is now a growing number of libraries and library services across the UK.
“The Libraries of Sanctuary ‘stream’ is an initiative to recognise the good practice of libraries which welcome people seeking sanctuary and other new arrivals into their community and seek to foster a culture of welcome and inclusivity.”
To support libraries interested in developing this area of work, there is a resource pack . City of Sanctuary are also developing a Libraries Network – for more info, contact Ashley Beckett .
Digital-Library can help you embrace your multi-cultural community and become a Library of Sanctuary. Ensure your library is the go-to hub at the very centre of your community by offering support to foreign speakers, refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
There has never been a better time to consider offering your communities products that facilitate improved communication. Products like Transparent Languages Online, Lote4Kids and Press Reader all assist foreign speakers to communicate more effectively and to feel more at home.
English Learning with Transparent Language Online
Provide the tools and resources your English learners need to survive — and thrive — in a new language and environment. They’ll build their vocabulary and strengthen their communication skills in preparation for real-world situations, from ordering a coffee to renting an accommodation. Transparent Languages Online offers over 110 languages, see full list and ESL list which includes Dari, Farsi, Pashto, Polish, Somali and Ukrainian
Transparent Languages Online empowers learners to explore a new language at your library, at their home, or on the go using any Internet-connected device. Learners have the flexibility they need to learn a new language anytime, anywhere. Unlimited access 24/7
This is the perfect product to connect to new sections of your local community and bring in more library users, and now is the perfect time to promote it on the back of the huge media surrounding Refugee Week.
Engage multilingual families with Lote4Kids
LOTE4Kids is an online database of digital picture books in World languages, that allows kids to enjoy books and learn language through the magic of storytelling.
LOTE4Kids is a great way for libraries to expand their children’s World Language collections to provide a more diverse and inclusive library service for multicultural families in their community.
Kids can now enjoy 2500+ digital books in over 60+ languages together with English translations, from the comfort of home! The LOTE4Kids App is easy-to-use, ad-free and secure, enabling parents and guardians to conveniently and safely provide children with picture books on the go.
Enable your whole community to keep abreast of current affairs with Press Reader
By providing your communities with newspapers and magazines in their own language you will make them feel valued and welcome. They will feel engaged and part of the community.
With publications from over 120 countries in more than 60 different languages, your borrowers get instant access to content from home, and from around the world.
Plus they can read content in English with the aid of instant translation in up to 16 languages and can also listen to stories with on-demand narration.
Many libraries are using these products and services as a support for their Library of Sanctuary offer. With the help of these great products, you can bring your communities together and become the go-to place for support.
Please contact us for a free trial and quote.
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