Welcome To NewToBC
NewToBC is all about making connections. Here, newcomers to Canada connect with public libraries, essential settlement information, and service provider organizations in their communities. NewToBC also plays a unique role in the library and settlement sectors, serving as a connector and information hub for public libraries, community agencies and BC communities as they welcome growing newcomer populations.
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Blog
Public Library InterLINK: Strengthening Communities Through Collaboration
May 14, 2025
Public Library InterLINK is a federation of 18 public library systems across British Columbia’s Mainland/Southwest region. Built on the foundation of collaboration, InterLINK’s goal is to help libraries pool resources, reduce costs, and expand access for patrons—connecting more people to more books, services, and resources.
BC Libraries Described in
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Libraries in BC are open to everyone! Learn what BC libraries have to offer.
Relevant library and settlement news is updated here each week.
Visit often to stay current!
Exciting news about NewToBC
Public Library InterLINK is happy to announce that NewToBC will continue to play a vital role in the library and settlement continuum. read more
May 23, 2025
IRCC shares common mistakes in PR applications — here’s what to avoid
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently released a training guide for immigration officers making decisions on permanent resident (PR) applications. read more
May 23, 2025
Foreign credential recognition in Canada: What happens when newcomers’ skills go unrecognized?
Each year, many skilled newcomers arrive in Canada, eager to contribute to the workforce. Yet many face unexpected roadblocks when trying to integrate into the… read more
May 23, 2025
British Columbia Resumes PNP Draws With Focus on High-Impact Workers
British Columbia has resumed its Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) draws for the first time since December 2024, after a months-long pause triggered by federal immigration target cuts. read more
May 23, 2025
Opinion: Canada’s economy and social systems require immigration growth
Canada’s real crisis is policy failure, not newcomers. Immigration is what’s keeping our economy and services afloat. read more
May 13, 2025
Local artist explores Chinese-Canadian immigration as LAC’s new creator in residence
Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has hired Eric Chan, a born-and-raised Ottawa artist who blends art and technology, as its first creator in residence. read more
May 13, 2025
N.B. to seek exemption on federal immigration targets, minister says
New Brunswick will look to negotiate an exemption to federal immigration targets, according to its intergovernmental affairs minister, as it looks to attract more newcomers… read more
Public libraries and community agencies offer numerous free events.
This event listing is updated each week. Visit often to see what’s going on!
Women’s Bhangra Aerobics
Where:
Fraser Valley Regional Library: Clearbrook Library
Date:
Monday, May 26th
When:
6:00pm – 7:00pm
CLICK HERE for more details
Know Your Rights: Employment Standards, Sexual Harassment, and Human Rights in BC
Where:
Online
Date:
Tuesday, May 27th
When:
5:30pm – 7:00pm
CLICK HERE for more details
Introduction to Trade Professions and Pathways (in English with Mandarin interpretation)
Where:
Online through Richmond Public Library
Date:
Wednesday, May 28th
When:
10:00am – 11:00am
CLICK HERE for more details
Settlement Services for Protected Persons
Where:
Guildford branch (Surrey Libraries): 15105 105 Avenue, Surrey BC
Date:
Thursday, May 29th
When:
1:00pm – 5:00pm
CLICK HERE for more details
Grand Opening: Options Language Assessment & Referral Centre in Coquitlam
Where:
2963 Glen Drive, Coquitlam, BC
Date:
Monday, June 2nd
When:
11:00am – 2:00pm
CLICK HERE for more details
Home Safety for Seniors (Workshop in Mandarin)
Where:
Online and in-person at City Centre Community Centre (5900 Minoru Boulevard, Richmond BC)
Date:
Friday, June 6th
When:
10:00am – 11:30pm
CLICK HERE for more details